Small Steps: Community
“It is often the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring about the most lasting change. ”
Something happens when people gather together. Specifically, when people who share something meet in person. It is something that is hard to express with words; it needs to be felt, experienced.
I was standing in a building recently, surrounded by people who were all there for one thing. One purpose. To experience God. Let me tell you – we did. It’s a feeling that sweeps over you in the midst of worship. When the worship leaders are singing active praise, when the voice of the person beside you can be heard, when hands around the room are raised, eyes are closed, and concerns of who is watching or listening are absent because you are consumed in a moment between you and the Most High.
It is powerful. It is uplifting. It is life changing, experiencing the Lord. It also gives you a sense of belonging and a place to call home. And it doesn’t require a big moment or a giant leap. Just a small step.
I had a friend recently say (when the conversation turned to church and the community that it is) that they wished they had a home base. A sense of community. My words now will be the same today as they were during that conversation. “You can.” All are welcome. No matter your past, your current life circumstance, or whatever it is in your head that says it’s too late or that you can’t possibly find the home your heart is longing for. You can.
That’s the thing about church, everyone is welcome. Our pastor has jokingly said before, “This was a perfect place until you walked in.” The humor in it is because none of us are perfect. None of us are without sin, and we all have things that make us unworthy to be in the presence of God. * Insert grace, salvation, and Jesus.* All are welcome. You are welcome. If no one has ever specifically or personally invited you into a church, consider this your invitation. Come be a part of a community of imperfect people connected by a perfect God. Maybe you’re a believer that just hasn’t been back to church in a while. This is also your invitation to come back home.
Wherever you find yourself today, I encourage you to take a small step. To step into something that will leave an uplifting and lasting change in your life. If you’re longing to find a place where you feel like you belong, come be a part of the church. Come be a part of a people connected by the love + grace of God.
It all starts with a small step. One moment that changes everything. And leaves you with hope, joy, and a place to call home.
xoxo
Brittany