Quite a few years ago I began to understand what true Christian community was. My only real experience up until then was a community of people who acted like they had their stuff together and never really lived messy lives together. I heard a lot of "preaching" but not a lot of authenticity.
I began a friendship where this friend became, "Jesus with skin on", to me. Someone who was not afraid to get in the messiness of where I was at and do life alongside me. Someone who was honest and authentic and didn't pretend they had everything together. This set the tone for me to then experience more relationships like this.
I have a group of 6 girlfriends, who at one time, did life together in the same location. We are now all over the place. But we have committed to encourage, pray for each other, and get together on a regular basis (as much as that is possible). There is nothing like being able to be honest with each other, share our stuff, and pray for each other and sometimes all together when we are able. There is no pretending in our group. We hold each other accountable for things. So much so that sometimes I want to tell them to stop! : )
Two weeks ago I had another friend, not of this group, call me and say they needed me. So I went down South to see her, encourage and just hang out with her. As I was sharing with someone where I was going, I told them I didn't know how much I helped, as I just mostly listened. My friend's words back to me have been in my mind a lot lately, "your words were in your driving". To me, this was profound. I often think I have to have the right words to say, or think I am not the most eloquent person around. I tend to compare myself with others that I think are wise and always say the right things.
But here's the thing.....people don't need us to always say something. Most of the time, they just want to know that someone will be there when they need them, or that they will listen. You can tell me all the right things, but if you aren't willing to get into the mess with me, then your words don't mean much. I would much rather you sit with me and listen, or just be there. We have all heard that actions speak louder than words. It's true.
Who needs you to be Jesus with skin on? Who needs your words to be in your driving? Until we are willing to get involved in each other's lives and do messy, we will not experience true and authentic Christian community.
