In This Together

Three days ago men filled our worship center for our fourth annual Beast Feast.  Wild game and the less important sides covered the tables.  Food brought us together; yet something more meaningful and enduring occurred.  Namely, the gathering of brothers.  In addition to moose meat and venison, we shared time and stories.  With just our presence, we reminded one another that we are not alone.  As one Christ-following man shares a meal with another, Christ's church grows stronger.  As a fully grown child of God shakes hands with his brother, a perhaps unstated message is communicated - "We are in this together." 

Together.  The word comes from the Proto-Germanic word "gaduri" which means "in a body."  The body was one of the Apostle Paul's favorite metaphors for the church.  He wrote in great detail about the importance of the body of Christ (the Church) working in unity and rhythm.  He called for a ban on elitism as well as self-deprecation.  No grandstanding or cowering allowed. 

Together.  King David bought into that concept.  He loved Jonathan.  He fought with his soldiers (except when he didn't; and we all know how that turned out - don't we?).  He stuck with his Mighty Men who, together, strengthened Jerusalem.  In light of his experiences, David wrote Psalm 133.  The first verse well articulates the power of staying together. 

Behold, how good and pleasant it is
    when brothers dwell in unity!
Psalm 133:1 (ESV)

When we do life together, we do what is good and pleasant.

#ordinarylives