LET’S GET TOGETHER

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10:25 (NIV)

                This weekend I will be attending a men’s retreat where there will be between 300-400 men. The camp where we will meet will be packed, straining its capacity. There will be men everywhere. The atmosphere will be charged with excitement and anticipation. The days will be filled with a variety of activities that appeal to men; from spiritual discussions to athletic competition to physical challenges. On Saturday evening, the men will gather around enormous charcoal grills, standing shoulder to shoulder, to grill large, juicy steaks just the way they like them. The whole weekend is designed to challenge and encourage men in a distinctly Christian atmosphere.

                I have attended this retreat a number of times. Each experience has had something positive to offer me. I remember with fondness canoe rides with a close friend and long conversations well into the night. I also relish the memory of taking my sons to the retreat and entering into the many activities with them at my side. I can honestly say that going to men’s retreat has been good for me.

                Now, here is the rub. Every year I debate with myself about whether I want to go or not. I am torn between two factors that pull me in opposite directions. On one side is the pull to spend quality time with men from my church and to connect with men that I know from other churches. Men’s retreat is a great opportunity for men to connect and begin to get to know one another on a deeper level. On the other side is my introverted nature. I tend to shy away from large crowds; they tend to drain my energy. I am not always comfortable in the press of all of the activity. It would just be easier to stay home.

                A danger that all of us face in our walk with Christ is to become spiritual introverts and isolate ourselves from others. This has been reinforced, in a negative way, by our society. We are constantly being told that matters of faith are private and should be kept out of the public arena. Therefore, our tendency is to shy away from corporate expressions of faith.

                The writer of Hebrews warns us against falling into the trap of spiritual isolationism. We have been designed by God to live in community with others. When we forsake community, we become vulnerable. It is in community that we can truly grow and blossom.

                Community reminds us that we are not alone on this journey of faith. One of Satan’s tactics to undercut our faith is to convince us that our experience is unique; that other people would never understand. The Bible makes it clear that perspective is a lie. No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)

                Being in community with other believers provides us with the resources we need to face the challenges of life. In community we can find wise counsel. In community we can find positive encouragement. In community we can refine our faith and correct our missteps. Being in community can make us stronger and can encourage us to take more positive risks in life. Solomon hit upon this when he penned the words found in Ecclesiastes 4.

                Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV)

                Being involved in the right community is essential. We hear much talk today about the need for community. This is often couched in the framework of acceptance and tolerance of different values and life-styles. I do believe in the value of community on a secular level. If we all knew each other better, we would all get along better. But secular community can never be a substitute for a solid spiritual community. Paul is very blatant is his warning to us about accepting all forms of community as of equal value. Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)

                Being consistently involved in a community of faith is an essential for our spiritual health. This could include being a part of a local church, participating in a small group or meeting regularly with a trusted Christian friend. We were never designed to run this race of life alone. It is as we come together, under the banner of Christ, that we experience the full power and glory of the Gospel. “For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20 (NIV)

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)