Creating Communityಮಾದರಿ

An unseen community – __________ 

The aromas of a feast wafted through the air and presents were waiting to be exchanged. Songs had been sung and the story of Jesus’ birth had been shared. 

This scene will be familiar for most of us and instantly make us think of Christmas. But for the small gathering of Bydla* Christians, it was a new experience. Not an experience which would be splashed across social media later for all to see, but one behind tightly closed doors. 

For Bydla Christians, faith cannot be shared openly together and celebrations like this one risk persecution. Across the world, millions of Christians face this reality and meeting as a church is nearly impossible. 

That’s why today’s word for community is _______. You might be confused, but for many, even revealing the language can be too dangerous. It is in these places that we are reminded of perhaps the most important part of community.  

Taking away the walls of the church building or the ability to meet doesn’t have to be the end of church community.

Even from behind prison bars, Paul shared in fellowship with other Christians, praying, writing and encouraging them (Colossians 2:5-7).

Even when we are physically disconnected, fellowship and community remains as we stand in Christ together. When everything else is stripped away, we are reminded where our true identity lies and what should be at the heart of our communities (Ephesians 2:19-21). 

We need to remember that we are part of a worldwide Church and, like Paul, stand in spirit with those who are persecuted. We can pray, encourage and rejoice with our brothers and sisters around the world. 

Challenge: Find a way to connect with someone who is cut off from church – perhaps write a letter or pray for them. 

Pray: Father, today we lift up our brothers and sisters across the world who are persecuted for their beliefs. We pray you would protect and comfort them. Thank you that although we may be separated, we are united in Christ.