Community

It seems as if communities struggle with community.  Individuals do not know what it is like to be part of a group.  Confusion reigns!  Should I dominate making sure the group makes the right choice?  Am I endorsing evil by just going along with the crowd?  Is there a way to balance my needs and the community; I do not want others to take advantage of me.  The questions continue without end, while many have no idea what role they can and should play in their community.
 
Like many conundrums, there are many facets to the question.  At the beginning is a simple question of engagement.  What does it mean to walk and be part of a community?  I find myself reflecting on experience, realizing that I have had a role model as long as I can remember.  If I needed help, I always knew I had “it” in the family.  If I did not know how to do something, I knew there was one person who would help me solve the puzzle.  If I needed someone to talk to, I knew he would be there.  As I look at my dad with all his human qualities, I realize the key gift he gave was a willingness to participate, to engage in my life.
 
We are in community, locally and with Divinity.  When God says, “I'll go ahead of you, clearing and paving the road.  I'll break down bronze city gates, smash padlocks, kick down barred entrances.”  (Isaiah 45.2)  I will create the opportunities you need to do your stuff.  God is engaging in your life and mine.  God promises are not hallow and empty words that skit off in the wind.  God is involved.  God is part of your life and mine.  We may not always want it, but God is here.  It is a model we would do well to see, experience, and follow.
 
Communities are dying for lack of attention.  At the heart of the crisis is a lack of connection and engagement in each other’s life.  We are community, old and new.