Gathering 5-24-15

This one was unusual, and an unexpected blessing.

The gathering culture here is very different from any group I've ever been a part of that meets for a worship service. When you have a worship service, generally speaking, attendance of the service is a, perhaps even THE, central act of a disciple's life. But, that is not the case in our group.

In our group, a life of love rooted in denial of self is central and the gathering, as I say ad nauseam, serves the purpose of provoking in each participant, a life characterized by love and good works.

So, the focus is on the lifestyle of the disciple, not on his/her attendance of a worship service.

Because of that, it's not a big deal for many of our people if they miss a gathering.

Today, we experienced fruit of that attitude. We knew that a core family would be away. Another family texted us yesterday saying they would miss. We got a text at two in the morning from a woman who was up at that time sick. And, we still haven't heard from a very dependable guy, who picks up three least of these older people from a local assisted living facility.

When they didn't arrive we texted him and got no reply. We called the home and found that our friends were still waiting for a ride. So, I jumped in the Buick and drove. The whole gathering was Evie, those three and me.

And, what a blessing!

There definitely is a blessing when you, in His Name, provide sacrificial care to those would otherwise probably not be cared for. Such is the case for each of these people, all of whom have some sort of intellectual or emotional handicap.

Evelyn and I had one of the sweetest times of fellowship we have ever had.

This was one of those days when using the lyrics of our songs was an effective teaching tool. These three normally sit quietly and listen while the Word is being spoken and discussed in the gathering. Today, the truth was focused on their lives and struggles and they participated openly and comfortably.

The taking of the bread and cup was a simple act, based on Mark's account of the Passover meal Jesus shared with the Twelve.

The meal was simple and, as always, greatly appreciated by these people who don't eat home, lovingly prepared meals very often.

Today's gathering was an unexpectedly sweet blessing. I wouldn't trade it for any megachurch service.