We had a BBQ after the service last Sunday at church. In the summer months, we try to have one monthly while the weather is still good enough for Bob to stand outside by the BBQ. I admit I have a love/hate relationship with these BBQs.
I can hear you thinking, “why would anyone hate a BBQ,” right? Well, it’s a lot of work. There is moving all the table and chairs, and then putting them all back for next Sunday. Getting all the food out and put away. And the cleanup! I’m usually tired before it starts because I’ve been on my feet for about four hours that morning already. Yep, I kinda hate these BBQs.
Yet, I also love these BBQs. I get to sit with people I love over a meal. We talk about things going on in our lives. We share about what the LORD has done for us. I cherish this time together. For me, it is one of the most precious times with our church family.
When Paul wrote a letter from prison to Philemon and the church that met in his house, he prayed that they would “be active in sharing [their] faith, so that [they would] have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.” [Philemon 6]
There is something about sharing our faith with others that opens it wide for viewing. As our faith is displayed for others, it is also more “visible” and “alive” to us. We begin to understand even more all the good things we have in Christ Jesus. We see what God has done in and for us, and we see what He has done in and for others.
Faith expands in the sharing. It shrinks when we hide it out of view.
