Creating & Killing Christian Community

Got the following Dietrich Bonhoeffer quote and comments from my philosophical friend, Russ Austin. Thought it was worth a blog entry.

THE BONHOEFFER QUOTE:
“The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community - even if their intentions are ever so earnest - but the person who loves those around them will create community.”

THE AUSTIN COMMENT:
"This statement really spoke to me about how dangerous it is when “something replaces somebody.”  Is Spiritual Family a “thing” or a group of people God has put in my life – and keeps adding to – that I am called to love and serve?  The answer is obvious so I am not looking for the solution.  Just struck me how easy it can be to claim something without being it.  I can describe it but am I the thing described in my day-to-day function?  At least for this moment on Monday morning I am not in love with my dream of spiritual family. I do have a deep respect for each of you and I am praying for our love to grow for each other and the people we serve."

THE RELUCTANT LEADER COMMENT:
I agree with Dietrich, and with Russ.

FYI, that's Dietrich in pix above, not Russ.

NOTE: Urgent prayer request on my 'accidental missionary' blog.

Comments

Good point and I will remember that "love the people" not the community!

[Meg Calagui]

Hi Pastor Steve!

Belated Happy Birthday!!! I pray for God's continuous flow of blessing in your life and even to your whole household. We miss you here in Manila :)

MC

[Meg Calagui]

Hi Pastor Steve!

Belated Happy Birthday! I pray for God to continually pour out His blessings in your life and even to your whole household. We miss you here in Manila.

MC

[Adam Mabry]

Great post, Pastor Steve. Community as an end is a non-starter. Community is for a purpose, but not a static end we can get to. We find ourselves there in the midst of life happening. We don't arrive there apart from real love in real life.