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We ARE the Community—Let’s Prove It
Let’s get one thing straight: Church isn’t a building, a one-hour event, or just a name on a sign. It’s people. Ordinary folks, walking side by side, trying to make a difference where God’s put us. At The Crossings, “community” isn’t just a catchy middle name, it’s how we live, breathe, serve, and love.
Why? Because Jesus never called us to build fancy fortresses or hide out from the world. He planted us here, in Brunswick, on purpose. We’re not here to stand off to the side and hope people wander in; we’re here to care about this place, these streets, these souls.
God said through Jeremiah: “Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you…, for in its welfare you will find your welfare” (Jeremiah 29:7, ESV). Translation? Don’t hunker down and wait it out. Get involved. Love your neighbors, roll up your sleeves, plant roots, and pray for the good of the town around you.
That’s why when we feed the hungry, pray with the sick, or pick up litter at the park, we’re doing more than checking boxes. We’re showing Brunswick what it looks like when God shows up and cares, not just about their souls, but about their whole lives. No walls between “church people” and “regular folks”, we’re all in this together. We shop at the same stores. We cheer for the Railroaders or the little league team, and we care about the same local issues.
But don’t get me wrong: we’re not heroes. We’re not the fixers or the saviors of this city. We’re broken people who need Jesus as much as anyone. That keeps us humble and willing to help, wherever and however we can. Sometimes our job is to pray. Sometimes it’s handing out food. Sometimes it’s just sitting quietly with someone in the middle of their pain.
Here’s what I’m asking, don’t split your “church life” from your “regular life.” If you know Christ, you’re His ambassador wherever you go, at home, at work, at school, at games, or walking your dog. Every interaction is a chance to love well, serve well, and point someone to hope.
If The Crossings is going to reach people for Jesus, it’s going to be by showing up, getting our hands dirty, and living this thing out—right in the heart of our community. Celebrate with your neighbors. Lend a hand when it’s needed. Share a meal or a word of hope whenever you can.
We ARE the community. Not just in label, but in how we show up and love, day in and day out. You’re making a difference here. Let’s keep going, side by side, heart to heart. That’s exactly where God wants His church to be.
Your neighbor and pastor,
Pastor Justin |
