What a wonderful image of the early church – gathering daily to hear the Word proclaimed, to worship, to fellowship to break bread.  They gave freely to one anther as there was need.  In Jesus’ name miracles were occurring and each day others were drawn into their community of believers.   When I think about the early church, the word ‘family’ comes to mind.

Then I thought, is this the word we would each use to describe our own church?  Or is it only a ‘church’ – a group that gathers once a week on Sunday mornings? A nice time to worship, to hear the Word proclaimed, to enjoy a little casual fellowship.  Or are there ‘families’ that some are involved in?  Do some dive in and become a part of a small group, a covenant group, a life group, an accountability group?  It is to this small group that an extra commitment is required.  It is one step past Sunday morning.

Yet when one chooses to take that extra step one usually finds the loving support, the personal encouragement, the heartfelt concern, the genuine fellowship, that we all need and crave.  If you haven’t taken that extra step, please do.  I know it is one more thing to fit into your busy schedule.  But it is worth the step.