Sermonette: Community

Beloved Community of God,

Pastor Amy writing to you today about community! I’ve been thinking a lot lately about what it means for all of us to be a community together, and also reflecting on how much this community has truly become my home over these last years.

In 1 Peter 4:8–11, Peter explores the profound significance and transformative power of community in our Christian journey.

1 Peter 4:8: "Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins."

In this verse, Peter implores us to place love at the forefront of our community life. The love he speaks of is not a mere sentiment but a selfless, sacrificial love – a love modeled after the very essence of God. It is a love that covers, forgives and heals. As a community, we are called to embody this love, creating an environment where sins are forgiven, wounds are mended, and grace abounds. It can be hard work, but the Holy Spirit who calls us to it will equip us for it.

1 Peter 4:9: "Show hospitality to one another without grumbling."

Hospitality is a powerful expression of love and a cornerstone of Christian community. It goes beyond the act of welcoming strangers; it encompasses a spirit of generosity, openness and genuine care for one another. When we practice it, we reflect the nature of our gracious God, who welcomes us into His family with open arms. Let our community be a place where all feel accepted, valued and loved.

1 Peter 4:10: "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."

God has uniquely gifted each member of our community. These gifts are not for personal glory but for the building up of the body of Christ. As good stewards of God's grace, let us identify and use our gifts to serve one another. In doing so, we contribute to the holiness and wholeness of our community, fostering an atmosphere where everyone is appreciated and empowered.

1 Peter 4:11: "Whoever speaks must do so as one speaking the very words of God; whoever serves must do so with the strength that God supplies, so that God may be glorified in all things through Jesus. To him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”

Our words and actions within the community have a profound impact. Whether we are speaking or serving, let us do so with a deep awareness of the responsibility entrusted to us by God himself. By speaking the words of God and serving in His strength, our community becomes a testament to the transformative power of God's grace, drawing others to Him.

So, beloved of God, let us remember that our community is not just a gathering of individuals but a manifestation of God's love, grace and power. As we love one another, practice hospitality, and use our gifts to serve, God will be glorified, and lives will be made whole in Jesus’ name. Amen