Gathering 9-13-15

Two things struck me about today's gathering.

First, there is something very special about gatherings that take place in our home. If you meet in a church building, you absolutely can't possibly experience it.

I've mentioned that we have some intellectually challenged people whom we pick up from an assisted living facility in our area and bring to our house.

The most seriously challenged of them showed up today telling us that his brother-in-law just passed away from a massive heart attack.

Our friend, I've called him Benny in the past, is heartbroken. This brother-in-law took very good care of Benny. Benny lives in the home at the state's expense and really owns nothing. He has never held a job. His brother-in-law was very generous. Benny talked today about the gifts of chips and soft drink that he enjoyed from the kindness of his relative/friend. These things matter tons to Benny.

Benny was clearly in deep despair. He walked in the door, sat down on our couch and, immediately, our Golden Retriever, Maggie (the greatest church greeter in the world), jumped up and snuggled down beside him.

There are some aspects to gathering in a home that, very simply, can't be duplicated in any church facility.

There are potentials for fellowship, for life in community, that are unique to a house gathering. This is only one example.

The second thing that struck me today is the theme that emerged in the Spirit. That theme often surfaces organically from our understanding of the reason we come together: i.e., to provoke each other to love and good deeds.

The words of the songs we sang led us to discussion of these Scriptures:

Matthew 7:24f,
James 2:14f,
Eph. 2:8-10,
Heb. 11, and
John 14:15,

and the truth that genuine faith in God produces fruit in obedience to His Word.

Taking of the bread and cup focused on Jesus teaching that to love Him is to keep His commandments.

As always, the meal was tasty and fellowship around the table was sweet.