CHEERS
During the eighties and early nineties the TV show “Cheers” exemplified friends doing life together by gathering at a bar. They relayed their experiences to each other and had a common bond that connected them. While this was acting, it does articulate the desires of our hearts today.
Life is better with community!
Of course this brings challenges and setbacks as we are all imperfect in relationships. Yet we can draw acceptance and healing from it as we embrace the moment.
What’s crazy is that the Cheers theme song depicts the Gospel in clear terms.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only Son. That whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
John 3:16
Check out these few lines and how it reveals the heart of God for all of us.
Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.
This is so true! Even as adults, we get nervous going into a room where no one knows us, then we naturally gravitate to those we have already met. It’s huge to feel noticed, to feel important, and communities of faith should provide this. God knows your name!
And they’re always glad you came.
We thrive on being welcomed and loved. This gives a sense of belonging and fitting in that rings true into our adulthood as it did in junior high. Jesus is always glad we come into His presence and He is reaching for us daily. Communities of faith should provide this as we exhibit the love of God to all people!
You want to be where you can see the troubles are all the same.
It’s ok to admit we have troubles and it’s great to acknowledge we need God! In truth, we all deal with the same stuff in various ways; therefore, supporting one another is huge! This is our opportunity to receive help and give help to others. Giving and receiving is a big part of our growth in life and in our faith. Communities of faith should accept people and not reject them!
The question is, will we model this?
This is the Gospel for the good and the bad! It’s the love of God reaching for all of us. We can be a part of the solution. We can emit hope far and wide as we embrace community through Him.
I encourage you to overcome your suspicions and trepidation by leaping into Christ-centered relationships. He will help you and He will heal you!
The best is ahead and have great week.
PD
