Community (featuring Covid)

Do you ever stop and just say “We are really in a pandemic”? I find myself doing it all the time. Even now, I look at the word Covid and just process how, for almost a year now, how much the world has changed. In march of 2020 I was just three months into 21, in a new city, working my first full time job. I had so much excitement to explore my new home, attend a new church, and meet new people. Emphasis on the meet new people. My parents attend a really cool church where the majority of the members are millennials. I just knew I was about to join a small group, serve, and really get involved with the Church. With the quickness, Rona said Sike, you thought. Just like that, there I was; 21, in a new city, going to work full time, and… going home. So much for meeting new people.

As someone who loves people and being in the company of people, this has been a very challenging season. I long for nights to just stay up and talk, worship, cry, pray, and eat with my girls. The saying, “you don’t know what you have until its gone” should just be an addition to the definition of Covid-19. We all experienced this in a way like never before. Never again will I EVER complain about getting up and getting ready for church. Oh, how innovative we have become though. Online church, zoom bible studies and small groups, virtual book clubs, YouTube channels and Podcasts. These are just some of the outlets and ways to stay connected to people and Christ. As my bedroom has turned into my sanctuary, I’ve discovered that the Holy Spirit is not confined to just the church building. Or that Sundays are not the only days to sit in the presence of God. While I miss the physical building and the congregation in them, I am thankful for how I have experienced God in my very home. I can worship, be filled with the Holy Spirit, weep, and hear Him speak within the same 4 walls I lay my head at night. (Thank you God, for being a God that meets us wherever.) Still, I miss the ability to experience this with my church family.

The Bible talks about friendships, relationships, and community so much. God wants relationship for us. Whether it is relationship between a friend, family member, or spouse, it is His desire. We know this because of Genesis 2:18. “Then the Lord God said, It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper corresponding to him.” We were literally created to be in relationship/community. Thank you Lord, for knowing it was not good for us to be alone. That there would be times we would need to be encouraged, prayed for, or even challenged by. One of my favorite scriptures about friendship is James 5:16. “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous person is very powerful in its effect.” This tells me that being in friendships with other believers is not just for fun, but the power of God is revealed through it. The Holy Spirit is present, chains are broken, and healing begins. I don’t know about you, but I don’t just need this. I want this.

It’s upsetting me and my homegirls, that covid messed up our community. ‘Cause we feel like, if we can’t go to church, then where can you go? (if you know the reference leave a comment lol) For real though, how can I be in community with covid around? Sis, here are just a few ideas and tips that I have that can get you back engaged and involved with your church friends. Whether you’ve known them since vacation bible school days or just met them through instagram, you are about to revamp what community looks like in quarantine.

1. Join or start a small group.

I can not begin to explain how powerful being apart of a small group is. It is a place to surround one another, pray for one another, and watch God answer prayers and change the life of your friends. Most churches have some sort of small group (could be called something different). So that they are actually ‘small’, most of the time there will be many different groups based on age, marital status, or interests (Highschool women, singles, moms, young adults). Wherever you feel represented the most, join and really engage. Or, go the extra mile and challenge yourself to start your own. You do not have to be a pastor or a saint. Just talk to God about it. You provide the space, He does the rest. Either way, highly recommend!!!

2. Bookclubs!

I had the pleasure of starting a book club this past year, at the brink of Covid, with several women. What seemed like a simple and small task, turned into a life changing experience. In which I gained some life long friends. Each week we would gather on zoom to talk about the book Relationship Goals written by Michael Todd (lead pastor of Transformation church). The book alone was absolutely amazing, but it was even better to go through it with other women. We would discuss our struggles in relationships, pray for each other, keep each other accountable (this is huge), and as pastor Mike says, we kept it H.O.T. (Humble, open, and transparent). Find a book that you want to read and share on twitter, IG or Facebook that you want to start a bookclub! Set up a schedule of what to read, what days you’ll meet, and stick to it! It is a great way to engage with others.

3. Create a GroupMe or iMessage group chats.

This is so simple, but very effective. While this can be annoying to some, it can really be critical for others. Having a solid group of friends or people to be in communication with can really change someones thoughts and even actions. I have personally used group chats to send sermons, bible verses, podcasts, and even songs that are getting me through. Sometimes it is just nice to be able to vent about your day or a situation and ask for prayer. Start by asking your friends and even extending the offer on social media, to anyone who wants to be in a Christ centered group chat. Just like that you can begin to form relationships with people you already know or a complete stranger.

4. Host a watch party!

This can be virtual or in person (check temps, wear masks, get tested. You know the deal). Whether it is for church on Sunday mornings or a re-broadcast through out the week, invite friends to join you in watching. After the sermon, have reflection/discussion time. How did the message resonate with you and how will you actually live it out. It doesn’t have to stop there, keep tabs on your friends through out the week. Hold them accountable for the spiritual goals they have set for the week. We all love food, try to have snacks or go out to eat afterwards as another way to invite people!

5. Follow Christian Influencers.

Now I know this may not be a normal “community tip”. Personally, I have found it to be helpful. Although I have not hung out with these people physically, the content that they post helps for me to stay focused on God and Godly friendships that I desire. The more I follow, listen to podcasts, and watch YouTube videos, I feel as though I am in a community. It is a way to listen and resonate with other Christians you don’t even know. But Hey, you may even shoot your friendship shot and become best friends! I know many people, and I myself, have gained friends just from swiping up on a story, or sending them a message. A few of my favorites are @kathlynceleste, @faceovermatter, @victoriouslogan, @jackiehillperry, @sopharush. There are so many other women (and men) of God on social media platforms. The more you follow, the more your feeds are filled with like-minded christian women!

It is my prayer, that even in covid, we will begin to create spaces for friendships and relationships that bear fruit. That our community, time line, and free time will bring glory to God. Most importantly, remember that Jesus wants to hang out with you too! When and if you feel alone, know the Lord is with you at all times. Ready to listen, talk, and enjoy your company. Make sure that relationship is good before trying to be in relationship with others!

May they CiGodInMe, CiGodInUs, and CiGodInOurCommunity.

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am with them.”

Mathew 18:20

A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

Ecclesiastes 4:12

You use steel to sharpen steel, and one friend sharpens another.

Proverbs 27:17