Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

As Christians, the journey of faith is one of continuous growth and transformation. In Hebrews 4:15, we are reminded that Jesus, our High Priest, understands our struggles and weaknesses. He remains patient with us as we pursue holiness through sanctification, striving to be more like Him and less like the world. This journey involves a commitment to nurturing our spiritual lives and embracing the process of becoming more Christ-like.

The Process of Maturation

To truly mature in our faith, we must recognize that love is not just a feeling but a fruit that takes time to ripen. Like any precious crop, love needs diligent care and nurturing. Romans 5:5 tells us that God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, which means we have everything we need to cultivate this fruit. However, we must engage actively in the gardening process—praying, exploring scripture, worshiping, and nurturing our relationships within the body of Christ.

The Need for Fellowship

In today’s fast-paced world, the practice of fellowship is often overlooked. Many people turn to online church services for convenience, which may be necessary for those who are homebound or ill. However, the fact remains that we need the body of Christ to grow and mature in our faith. We are not designed to walk the Christian life in isolation. The discipline of the church is essential; our souls require connection with others who share our beliefs.
When I resigned from my position at a church this past spring after five fulfilling years, I faced a daunting challenge: finding a new community. Although I visited several churches with vibrant worship and anointed preaching, I struggled to connect and engage. I felt a deep sense of emptiness as I attended services and served in sporadic opportunities. Without those vital connections to fellow believers, it felt like my spirit was slowly fading.

Finding Community

Old church relationships began to wane when I no longer engaged actively within that community. Many churches seemed to have their established congregation, leaving me feeling isolated. Thankfully, I found renewed hope when I visited a small country church. In that welcoming environment, I felt life and energy flow back into my soul. I quickly became part of a community where I could serve, grow, and enjoy fellowship with like-minded believers.

The Importance of Gathering

Community truly matters. We bear fruit when we live in connection with others, supporting one another in our spiritual journeys. The Bible commands us not to forsake the gathering of ourselves for a reason. When we come together, we create opportunities for growth, accountability, and encouragement.
As we tend to our gardens daily, let us commit not only to prayer, scripture, and worship, but also to engaging with fellow believers. Together, as the body of Christ, we can cultivate an environment where love ripens, and we all grow in holiness and likeness to Him. Make it a priority to attend church, participate in gatherings, serve within your community, and embrace the powerful work God is doing through His people. Let us grow together, bearing fruit for His kingdom.