Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 5:17-20
Dear God, I wouldn’t have thought of linking the concept of doing your will (verse 17) with being in joyful, worshipful community with others (verses 19 and 20), but it’s all part of the same paragraph.
One of the things I miss about going to a more contemporary church is that feeling (for me) like I’m joining my heart with others in worship of you. My wife is Catholic so I go to church with her. And there are people who get a lot out of that style because it is what fits their personality. When they read the liturgy with everyone there as well as with Catholics around the world, it creates a type of community for them. Because I grew up in a different type of church, I think my perspective on it is different. I miss singing songs that stir me alongside others. I miss being in small groups with challenging theological discussions. I miss vulnerably sharing with others.
Yes, I can see where good community is an important part of my ability to hear the Spirit and live in your wisdom and guidance. Father, help me to create that kind of community around me. Help me to do it at work. Help me to do it with friends. And help me to figure it out at church. I want it so that I can create good soil in my heart for your Holy Spirit to grow fruit that will glorify you.
In Jesus’s name I pray,
Amen
Emails to God 