The Joy of Becoming Family

The Joy of Becoming Family: God’s Righteousness and the Gift of Community

Over the last six or so weeks, many in our church family have been reading The Familiar Stranger by Tyler Staton. For me, this has been a powerful invitation to rediscover the Holy Spirit not as distant or mysterious, but as present, personal, and active in our everyday lives. I have witnessed His presence leading me, guiding me, creating a patient spirit in me when I am anxious. He is alive.

One theme that continues to stand out is the righteousness of God. For many of us, “righteousness” can feel like a heavy church word. Maybe it resonates as something distant, unattainable, or reserved for the spiritually elite. But throughout Scripture, and beautifully reflected in The Familiar Stranger, we’re reminded that God’s righteousness is not cold perfection. It is His goodness, His faithfulness, His holiness, and His loving commitment to make things right. And through Jesus, we are invited into that righteousness.

Not because we’ve earned it. Not because we’ve figured everything out. But because God delights in drawing near to His people. I'm in Chapter 11 this week and have been sitting on this quote, "But God doesn't merely grieve or offer sympathy for our sufferings from a safe distance. He enters in to it". Wow. It then goes on to say, "Why didn't Jesus take the shortcut? Because a victorious but unsuffering God is not good news".

The Holy Spirit forms us over time, shaping our hearts, renewing our minds, and teaching us to live differently in a world desperate for hope. That kind of transformation rarely happens in isolation. It happens in community.

That’s why LifeGroups, Bible studies, attending on Sundays and connecting as a greater church matter so deeply.

There is something sacred about gathering in living rooms, around dinner tables, over coffee, or during shared prayer. Week after week, we experience the joy of being known and knowing others. We encourage one another, ask honest questions, laugh together, pray for each other, and learn what it means to follow Jesus side by side.

In a culture where loneliness is common and shallow connection is easy, authentic Christian community is a gift. As we look ahead to summer (woohoo!), we’re especially excited for the opportunities we’ll have to connect as a church family. From outdoor concerts and food truck nights, to shared meals and a new series, this season offers countless ways to slow down, build relationships, and welcome others into community.

Summer has a way of opening doors: conversations linger longer, schedules become a little more flexible, and people are often more open to connection and invitation. What if this summer became a season of deeper roots? A season where we not only attend church, but truly become the church together?

We can’t wait to see what God does in and through our church family this summer.
So come to the events. Invite a friend. Stay after service a little longer. Make space for conversation and community. Because often, the Spirit of God moves most powerfully in the simple, faithful moments we share together.