Peace be to the whole community, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
(Ephesians 6.23
NRSV)
Russell described many after work activities that he and other co-workers participated in--pot lucks, Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners. There were times when the co-workers celebrated a new birth, and there were times when people were sick and in the hospital. When someone came to work who experienced a tragedy in their life everyone would pull together for them offering help in many forms. Russell told of his personal tragedies and the time he was embarrassed to go back to work. When he returned to work, however, he discovered that his fellow employees were there for him. There was one special co-worker named Hazel who helped him through some difficult times in his life. She encouraged him when he was ready to give up. Now that Russell has retired he misses his co-workers a lot. He still remembers their names and birthdays. They are a very special part of his life.
How are you doing in building a Christian community?
Dear God, help me to build up your community of faith. Amen.