I Am PatrickSample

DAY 3: Finding Community

DEVOTIONAL:

Life in community with other Christ-followers in an authentic, accepting, and relationally connected way is God’s design for every person. A healthy community provides each person duct tape when life feels like it’s falling apart, fireworks for times of celebration, embers of desire when life grows cold and indifferent, and huddles that drive away the heavy-handed grip of isolation. Just as the trinity has existed in relationship for all time, you were wired to be connected to others too.

While Patrick lived much of his life preaching to the people of Ireland, we see in this clip how community was a major part of his spiritual formation as well. Having spiritual discussions, encouraging one another in the faith, and breaking bread together are all critical roles of redemptive community and among the most important disciplines of the Christian life.

One major scheme of Satan is to isolate believers. Consider how a lion attacks a herd of gazelles. The lion will attack the edges of the herd until he begins to isolate one from the safety of the herd. Then he can go after that one, who is defenseless against his superior strength. Satan does the same thing to us. Trying to lure us from the safety of Christian community to hurl accusations and lies our way. A strong community will remind you of the truth of Christ and keep you strong in your faith.

TALK IT OVER:

1. How has community helped you grow as a believer? What would your spiritual life look like if you had no community?
2. What makes redemptive community different from the community one would find at a local bar or ball game, where everybody knows your name?
3. What are some things about Christian community that come easily to you? What are some things that are more difficult?