“I long to see you…” Romans 1:11a

Sounds like a love letter, doesn’t it? For Paul, there was no withholding his affection for this beloved group of Christ-followers. Making His first love apparent in the opening lines of his letter, Paul’s second love is for this group of contagious Christians. He extended grace and peace to them – a common greeting between Christians of the first century (v.7b). He thanked God for their rapidly expanding influence in their terribly secular culture (much like post-modernity of today; v.8). Paul was earnest in his desire for a reunion, praying for the opportunity often (v.10).

Today’s five understandable words reinforces the desire of his heart to enjoy the community of these Believers who had not only embraced faith in Christ, but had also understood the mission of The Great Commission: connecting hearts to the heart of God. Not wanting to appear selfish in his statement, Paul also kept the main thing as THE MAIN THING – strengthening their faith by pointing these dear Christians to Christ and His teachings (v.11b).

Paul’s transparency is so refreshing. He admits that he, too, would be encouraged by time invested with them (v.12). That’s the benefit of a faith community: being built up together. In his letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul explained this benefit:

“…you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone. In Him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:19-22)

Those who are outcasts, out of the circle, and marginalized by society are welcome to experience the family of God. It’s more than a religious exercise, He’s the purpose of the gathering and is among those gathered, residing in each one’s heart who has confessed Him as Lord and accepted Him as Savior after repenting of their sins. Being a part of this faith community, one is built up – not torn down… at least, that’s the way it should be…

Unfortunately, I’ve seen others who have been abused by dysfunctional churches – confederates of faith who function on control and manipulation in the lives of others, including their pastor. I’ve personally experienced such pretenders of the faith… and have been the target of their abuses.

We should work to make the fellowship of faith a healthy community for building up the Body of Christ, known by our love for one another. Yes, we are called to encourage one another in the faith, in righteousness, and in truth. We are to be people of the The Word who welcome the outcasts of society and work to help in their spiritual maturing to be more like Jesus. Indeed, we are to see Christ in each other! When we do, we grow in love for each other… and we will joyfully anticipate each weekly gathering. We, too, will be able to say with Paul:

I long to see you.

Have a blessed evening…