As we gathered, I invited us to reflect on what it truly means to be the church—not just in a universal sense, but as a local body of believers. While every Christian worldwide is part of Christ’s universal church, the practical, tangible expression of that reality is found in our local gatherings, like ours here at 317 County Road 303. In today’s culture, it’s easy to treat church like a buffet, picking and choosing what suits us, or even opting to stay home and consume spiritual content online. Yet, something vital is lost when we neglect the embodied fellowship of believers: the sharpening, the encouragement, and even the challenges that come from real relationships.

Being part of a local church means more than just attending; it means allowing ourselves to be known, to have our rough edges exposed and refined, and to contribute to the growth of others. The early church, as described in Acts 2, devoted themselves to four things: the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. These practices are not just traditions—they are the means by which God shapes us, reminds us of the gospel, and knits us together as a family. Communion, for example, is a regular reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and our shared identity in Him.

Each person is needed in the church. Just as every part of the body has a unique function, so too does every member of the church. When one is missing or disengaged, the whole body is affected. Sometimes, discovering our place means simply stepping in and serving, even if it takes a few tries to find the right fit. Our presence, our greetings, our prayers, and our service all make a difference, no matter how small they may seem.

The world is watching how we live together. The “one another” commands in Scripture—encouraging, loving, bearing burdens, showing hospitality—are not optional extras, but the very heart of what it means to be the church. As we practice these together, we become a living testimony of Christ’s love to our community. May we continue to grow into a church where these “one another’s” are not just words, but our way of life.