A More Normal Way of Being the Church

So, what does this “free range believer,” this “being the church, rather than going to church” look like? How can it have a relational aspect?

You are free to focus on the people in your world by taking time to notice them, engaging with them whenever you can, loving them unconditionally, and being there for them when they have a need.

Your church just became all of the people in your world. You get to show them a little bit of Jesus, but you also get to be yourself. We sure don’t need any more phonies who pretend to be spiritual giants, because there are no spiritual giants. There are only people who love and want to live life in the way of Jesus, who happen to get it right once and awhile.

You are not trying to get anyone to go to church or join a group. You are just trying to love them. The way you do that is wide open.

Think about the people in your life that you want to love and influence. That list would likely include your family, friends, neighbors, and associates. Then think about how to love them. It will be different for each person, but unconditional love is the core. 

Pay attention to every person you encounter in the course of a day. Give each one your undivided attention. Give them a little love.

This way of being the church is so normal. It’s part of life. Relax. Just love people.

It can get a little messy, because people are messy. It won’t follow much of a schedule. Loving people like this is a mindset; not a program or a a project.

But, it is fun. You get to know a lot of different kinds of people, and see the various ways God is at work in their lives. Besides, we are made for relationships. We are made to love. It’s very rewarding.