Community

In Okinawa, studies have identified five factors that have contributed to the large number of centenarians in that region: a good diet, low-stress lifestyles, high levels of activity, spirituality (providing purpose - the positive effect of prayer particularly mentioned), and a caring community. These aspects align well with the desired lifestyle for us as followers of the Way (as Christians are called in Acts 22:5). Using the metaphor of a body, Paul acknowledges the diversity of Christians on all levels of existence. We look different, have different physical, emotional, and economic abilities, different ethnic backgrounds, are on different places on the scale of beauty, and have different levels of care needs. But, remembering God put us together “makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other.” (1 Corinthians 12:25 NLT) We are called to be part of and contribute to this special community. In Ephesians 4:2-3 a life worthy of our calling (to be a God community) is described as always being humble and gentle. Being patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of our love. Making every effort to keep ourselves united in the Spirit, binding ourselves together with peace. Our faith family, our community, is a blessing from God helping us live happy, meaningful, and long lives.

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Blessings

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Jaco

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