Day 17: A Place To Belong

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"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."  Romans 12:2

We are built to believe not just belong to God's Family.  He wants us to be members of His team and His church.  Now, Day 17 offers great insight but I think the church lives within us all.  It is not actually attending a church which makes us a part of His team.  Many churches even abuse the word "member" by only letting exclusive people enter their walls or events or community.  God's word was never meant to be private or secretive.  He wants anyone willing to take the steps to know God's word to be able to have community without human made restrictions.
Your community and church can be in a group of people or friends.  I believe it does not necessarily mean to enter a building called a church.  I personally have many communities in my life that I am a member in and believe whole-heartedly.  I belong to a gym where I am not just another number.  I believe in this gym because it houses some of the most spiritual, inspiring, ambicious, real, and motivating people.  I belong to a parish which I believe in their commradery.  They have never turned anyone away or closed it's doors on non-catholics.  They have always been helpful and have a great family orientation.  I belong to a small but truthworthy group of friends.  This group is about quality not quantity, and we support each other is so many aspects of our lives.  We are able to be afraid and vulnerable without having to please others'.
God is not looking for restrictions on your relationships.  He is looking for commitment and accountability with the utmost respect and love.  He does not want you to love your friend but not their significant other.  He does not want you to love your church but not enjoy the readings.  He wants you to really love your church and commit to all aspects of it. . .the community, the word, and God.  What we should realize is that we are all imperfect beings and there will be times where a friend's boyfriend is annoying or perhaps a priest is not as full of energy in his teaching that day; but sometimes we have to look past the qwerks of the day to really believe and listen to God.

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good."  Romans 12:9

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