January 5 devotional

by
Rev. Dr. Rusty Baldridge
Associate Pastor for Community Outreach & Benevolence, Cathedral of Hope UCC, Dallas, TX

Scripture 
How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity! Psalm 133: 1

A Word of Hope
My two kids have a strong family resemblance to their mom and me. In other words, one can certainly tell they are our children. We all have characteristics that are shared by our family. In fact, family medical history is important for our personal well being. We may also have shared behavioral and emotional characteristics. In other words, "family resemblance" has to do with the ways people who are related to each other share similar emotional, social, physical, intellectual and spiritual characteristics.

Not only do we have our biological family and our 'family of choice,' many of us have a church family. Many attend worship in a building, some meet in homes and some worship through the internet. The important thing is that we be part of something that is bigger than we are when we are alone. Whatever church looks like to you, you are there because of similar beliefs. There is some kind of resemblance that causes you to feel safe and have hope.

Scripture confirms this:

Do not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the day approaching. Hebrews 10: 25

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with you. Matthew 18: 20

What's more fulfilling than a life lived in friendship and harmony with those around us? Psalm 133: 1 gives us a glimpse of life as God would have us live it: in peace and godly community with our neighbors.

How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!

If you are not part of a nurturing spiritual family, the beginning of 2012 may just be your wonderful time to consider being part of something bigger than you. I believe you will be blessed. I believe you will feel good about joining a community of like believers. Hope and blessings often come to us in small steps and even when we least expect it. Let 2012 be the year that over-fills you with joy and peace and community.

Prayer 
God of grace let me not miss an opportunity to be inspired and be part of something wonderful. Amen