I Get By With a Little Help From My Friends – Community in Full Swing

Currently we are in the middle of our two-month rhythm of community.  Prior to the launch of each rhythm we contemplate ways we will engage.  For instance, in this rhythm one thing we did as a family was to make a list of those people in our lives that we wanted to be closer with and who we’d made intention efforts toward.  After a month into the rhythm, I’m reflecting more on the ways we’ve been loved and cared for; the neighbors that have helped and served us, oppose to all of the great, intention things we’ve done to foster and love those in our community.  I guess planning is our best attempt to be faithful (and maybe it allows us to be in control), while just making ourselves available, open, and receptive may be the greater lesson?

Last week our clothes washer broke down and the cost of repair may have been equal or greater than buying a new machine.  It took us about a week to figure out what we could afford, which washer was the best in our price-range, and who carried it for the best price.  Our family can sure pile up loads of laundry in just a few days!  (By the way, this made me completely aware of how much more of a star my wife is and the amount of unseen laundry she does behind my back!  Also this shines the light on how little laundry I do – which is zero!  I digress…)  Several neighbors heard of our plight and opened their homes and laundry facilities.  One neighbor even folded our clothes!  Also, my wife and kids spent an afternoon hanging out at the laundry mat while they literally did TEN loads of laundry.  The only up side if this is that one can do all ten loads at once.

While my parents were up for the holiday weekend, my dad helped me figure out the coming installation of the new washer and, without complaint, helped me lug the old washer down the tight stairway – that was brutally heavy and awkward.  After my wife picked up our new appliance, another unassuming neighbor was in the wrong place at the wrong time (for him)…. standing in front of my house when my wife pulled up.  “So Jay… how’d you like to help me out and lend some muscle? ”  Going up was definitely easier than coming down, but, nonetheless, my neighbor was my hero in that moment!

My best laid plans and efforts continue to pale in comparison to the plans and schemes God has for me and my family.  We sit back and are grateful.  God is in the planning, the struggle, and the generous gifts.  We love because He first loved us.  We continue to see that love shine through a multifaceted lens.

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