Explore Your Community

“Explore your community” sounds like the slogan for the next tourism ad for the city you live in. That’s exactly what it is meant to be - for you. We get to know people when we find and see the things they love.

This reminds me of the story of Jesus and a “wee little man”. For those who didn’t grow up in kid’s church, there is a song about how Jesus had dinner at a man’s house. In Luke 19, there was a man named Zaccheus who was a tax collector. Just like today, they were not particularly liked. Jesus saw Zaccheus and decided that was the man he would have dinner with. Zaccheus was in proximity to Jesus and clearly curious about him. Jesus, in turn, invited himself into the man’s world and the man became a Jesus follower.

As a self - proclaimed introvert, the easiest thing in the world for me is to be in my house. People will see me travelling everywhere. You don’t see how many days I might spend in my house after all the travels. Or the old boss who reminded me that I love my work from home day and to protect it. While being an introvert, I also love people’s stories.

This week has all been about the stories of the mountains of Pikeville and Prestonburg, Kentucky for me. I’ve been invited into the lives of so many different people and the things they care about. Art, music, old theatres being restored, a town that is being restored, and more. It’s beautiful and fascinating. Yes, I have talked to quite a few who know and love Jesus. However, I’m sure there are many who don’t yet know Jesus.

They will remember that someone came from somewhere else just to spend their day and time with them. Imagine how you would feel if someone travelled to spend the day with you! They asked you about everything that was important to you and wanted to learn more. That would make you excited and want to hear more of what they had to say.

Jesus created so many cool people with big dreams. They are everywhere in your neighborhood. You just have to be willing to look. Family and church are important, but your community is also important too. Don’t sit inside the four walls of a house or a church all the time. 

My first place to spend time in the community is a local coffee shop. You’ll meet everyone there! However, you will also find local, free things in your library or at community parks. There are even worship nights at all kinds of different churches. This week consider being courageous and exploring someone else’s world. Watch how Jesus meets you there!