With all this talk of intentionality, where is all the fun? Spontaneity? Genuine love among friends? Does there always have to be an agenda? Can’t we ever just hang out? Does it get lost in the mix? May it never be! Friendship is extremely important.
The Apostle Paul expresses a deep love for the church in the letters that he writes to them. Just check out a few…
“First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you…for I long to see you…” [Romans 1:8, 11]
“I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace God that was given you in Christ Jesus…” [1 Corinthians 1:4]
“…I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers…” [Ephesians 1:16]
“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” [1 Thessalonians 2:8 ESV]
Paul loves people. They mean a lot to him. Likewise, every single person is created in the image of God and has value, merit, and worth, [Gen 1:28] so we should be eager to show love to them. After all, Jesus said if you want to know what are the most important things we have to worry about? Love God, and love people. [Matt 22:37-40]
This can’t be done without spending time together. Just being friends. AKA “Hanging out…” It really is important.
Speaking of which…we will be doing just that. The Highlands Campus team will be hanging out this Friday at 6pm. Eating food. Telling stories. Watching the kids play. Hopefully laughing big belly laughs together. Want to join us? Let me know!
