All people have one thing in common: we are all thirsty for human love. We were created by God with the desire to belong in a family and community. You’ve probably heard the amazing Beatle’s song called, “Can’t Buy Me Love.” Well, in Japan, you can buy a counterfeit!
You can phone a family- rental business and ask for a son, daughter, grandchild—whatever relative you want—and that type will show up at your door and greet you as if they haven’t seen you in years. Of course, the service isn’t cheap: three hours with your “new family” costs $1,130, plus transportation. That’s about $375/ hour!
As a Christian, you shouldn’t need to rent someone who pretends to love you. You can be a part of a genuine, local church family who authentically knows you and cares about your happiness. In a fast-paced world that is increasingly selfcentered and lonelinessinducing, I praise God for the rooted relationships found in a healthy church! At LECC, we choose to be involved for each other in every stage of life. We are blessed and thankful to have relationships that don’t need to be faked.
Remember Jesus said, “Everyone will know you’re my disciple by how you love one another.” The way you show love is a badge of discipleship. Here’s how the early church showcased the love of Christ: “All the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity.” (Acts 2:44-46) Even a healthy church brimming with joy will have problems, as the early church in Galatia did. The Apostle Paul told them, “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.” (Galatians 6:1) Church families can help with both a sin and/or a life burden. “Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself…. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone— especially to those in the family of faith. (Galations 6: 2,10) We can help others in their trials by praying for them and with them, reading them scripture, and performing some physical action that will actually help them. We at LECC try to practice Paul’s wisdom to “not get tired of doing what is good.” (Galations 6: 9). We’d be happy for you to join us at 415987 Highway 9, Eufaula. We have small group Bible study at 10 a.m., worship at 11 a.m., and Wednesday night activities at 6:30 p.m.
If you ever feel you need to rent a family, just visit us instead. We know that the Rooted Relationships found in a family of faith should spiritually and physically support one another. We will help share your burden and encourage your walk with Christ.
God Bless You!
Jeremy Little, Minister
