Church planting in small towns isn’t easy.
People have often lived there a long time and it’s difficult to forge new relationships and to change long standing opinions.
Things simply are the way they are and change often comes slowly.
It was encouraging to talk to small-town VMC church planters and to hear of the growing warmth of relationships within their community.
Slowly and steadily, church members are becoming more comfortable and trusting with one another.
There’s an increased sense of ownership for the church and people seem more invested.
There’s more participation in church services and people are more willing to share personally.
The growing warmth of relationship extends to the community as well.
There’s not quite as much “closed-off-ness” as community members recognize the goodness and beauty of this church congregation.
The practical care and love extended to those in their small town who struggle with food security is noted.
Those not going home for the holidays and simply want to sit around a Thanksgiving table with others are finding that sense of community at the church.
The increased warmth and joy of relationships is the thawing, abundant-life-presence of the Spirit of God.
No wonder – God is most interested in connection.
After all, it is Christ who holds all things together.
And so we ask, dear God – more, please. More.
Photo creds: Gene Gallin (Unsplash)