Connection

I visited a nearby church this evening (because I have a paper that I have to complete for a summer class) and the message was on "Connection." I was excited to find out it was on this topic since this is precisely what I will be speaking on this Sunday. The speaker's main point when it comes to connection was: God works by his Spirit through his people.

I couldn't agree more, God uses his people to reach others. The Church is God's MO for reaching the world. He has no only means. He has chosen to use his Church to reach people who are far from him. The only problem I had with the talk was how self-focused it was. Her point (repeatedly stated) was that they need to come together and connect as a family. She wanted connection, but she didn't really want them to connect with those outside the church (at least it seemed that way).

As an outsider looking in, I could tell that this church really loved each other, there seemed to be a lot connection and love present, yet at the same time I noticed that this wouldn't be a very comfortable place for someone who wasn't connected to their church. There was a connection, but no connection. I can say that because not one individual greet me or introduced themselves to me. I could have introduced myself to someone, but honestly I didn't think it was my job as an outsider. Now, I didn't walk to my car crying (partly because I have a group I am connected to), but what if I was an individual starving for connection and I decided to try a church? It would probably be the last time I tried one...at least this one.

This was a little disheartening. Although I agree that there is something unique about Christian community. It's is beneficial and helpful 0n a lot of different levels, but if our Christian community never reaches outward then it never reaches God's full potential. People are hurting for community...Christians need to connect with them. Are you willing?