We All Build...

I commented on Friday's post, for a brief moment, on such buzz words as derisive and tribalism. There's a good form of tribe, that has been established when people talk about business, and the culture within an organization and that's great. You want people on board, moving towards the same goal and mission in that environment.

But turn the tables to something like politics and it becomes a criticism for those who can't see the perspective of those whom they disagree. There's a group that is bent on sending the message that community is damaged and in trouble. That certain people are evil and certain beliefs and ideologies are horrendous. And in the midst of it all, is a desire for the truth from a culture that has devalued the truth. Perhaps because of everyone's loyalty to their own "tribe".

Community is what you make it.
Community is what you focus on.

Are there problems? Sure.
Is there room for improvement? Absolutely.
Can you change the world? At some point.
Can you transform your circle of influence? Yes.

Community starts with the individual. It will be seen as derisive when there is a group determined to send that message. It will not be seen as such for those focused on common ground, common purpose and recognition that everyone around us as well as the one in the mirror is both fallen and capable of greatness.

Community will be great when people pursue the building of great relationships. That requires truth. It requires true compassion. It requires true love. And commitment to seeing people through the eyes of Christ. Anything short of that creates opportunity for other hindrances and attitudes to dominate in ways that are neither good, nor beneficial.

On this #communitySaturday, pray that our perspective and filters would not stand in the way of truth. Furthermore, pray that our faults and failures would not hinder our ability to build relationships and extend friendship, even with those whom we may disagree on any number of issues or beliefs. May God work the miraculous, as we live with eyes open, looking for opportunity whereby God might be glorified.  Pray that the message of Christ would go forth from the messes that have happened in our lives. May we communicate the love of God and the truth of the Gospel in a world that struggles to see past their own experiences and cultural loyalties.

May we be a people sold out
Only to the purpose for which God created us.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC