This is a poem I wrote during an all-squad worship time. Our whole squad is together this month. All 23 of us living together in one house, sharing one kitchen, one not-so-big bathroom, and limited common room space. It has been very overwhelming at times. We have all been challenged in new and often unexpected ways. But it has also been beautiful.
I think we would all agree that people are not always easy to live with. But I believe that true, godly community is something every believer needs and craves. God didn’t make us to live alone. He calls us to gather together and to love even when love seems like the last things you should be feeling.
I hope the words of this poem challenge you as they challenged me.
Words heard in truth
Truth spoken in love
Prayers offered
Tears shared
Pain felt for someone else
Joy in another’s success
Laughter without reason
Smiles freely given
Chores done on my behalf
Money loaned with no account
Secret sacrifices
Peaceful silences
Giving myself for another
With no expectation of return
Belongings shared
Even in lack
Difficulties bared, not hidden
Transparency in it’s fullness
Clear reflections
Quiet acceptance
Fighting along side, never against
Believing the best in each circumstance
Choosing grace
Extending mercy
Giving your best when no one is looking
Thinking of others though your heart is breaking
Loving well
Fully loved