December 20, Part of the Group

Today’s reading: Psalms 96-100

“Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture” - Psalm 100:3.

You are a “sheep,” a follower of the Lord, no matter how mature you are or how many years you have walked with Him. Notice also that the psalmist was talking about multiple sheep, which constitute a flock. This means you are part of a larger group, which of course is known today as the church. All this requires humility — the understanding that you never arrive and that you are never to be alone, for you need the gifts, insight, and opportunities for love, personal growth and generosity that are afforded you in your group setting. Therefore, you are not only to focus on your personal well-being, but also of the health of your group or church. Paul wrote most of his letters to churches and not individuals, and had this to say about the church in his letter to Timothy:

Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth (1 Timothy 3:14-15).

Are you part of a church group? Do you have its best interests at heart? Do you just show up from time-to-time, or do you invest time, money and your spiritual gifts to benefit others?