Embracing Our Divine Calling: The Power of Belonging in Christ

Greetings, beloved friends and church family,

As I reflect on our recent gathering and the message that resonated in our hearts, I am moved by the profound truth that we explored together: the essence of belonging in Christ's body. The sense of unity and purpose we share as believers is not just a byproduct of our faith; it is a cornerstone of our spiritual journey.

During our service, we discussed the deep-rooted human desire to belong—a desire planted within us by our Creator. In the Gospel accounts, Jesus repeatedly calls us to belong to Him, imploring us to surrender our burdens and rest in His presence. It is an invitation not only to individual transformation but also to communal living, where each of us plays a vital role in the larger body of Christ.

Our mission at QFMC—"Belong, Believe, Bear Fruit"—begins with the simple, yet profound act of belonging. Before we dissect theological doctrines or focus on bearing the fruits of our faith, we must first recognize the privilege and responsibility of belonging to Jesus and to one another. The Apostle Paul beautifully illustrates this in Romans 12:4-5, reminding us that we are many parts of one body, each with its special function, yet we belong to each other.

This sense of belonging is not about mere attendance or nominal affiliation. It goes beyond the walls of our church building. It is about opening our lives to one another, risking vulnerability, and choosing to share in the joys and burdens of life as a family rooted in Christ. Belonging means knowing and being known, supporting and being supported, loving and being loved.

In today's world, where loneliness is often described as an epidemic, the church stands as a beacon of hope. We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, reaching out to those who feel isolated and unseen. As we embrace our divine calling to belong, we also extend that invitation to others, creating a community where everyone can find their place among us.

Reflecting on the message delivered by Bishop Devereese from Haiti, I am reminded of the global dimension of our belonging. Despite the challenges faced by our brothers and sisters there, the light of Christ continues to shine brightly, exemplifying the resilience and unity that comes from being part of God's family. Their courage and dedication call us to action, inspiring us to pray, support, and continue our mission to reach those who are lost and hurting.

As we move forward together, my prayer is that we become more deeply formed and fully equipped disciples, not merely bystanders in our faith journey, but active participants in God's redemptive work. May our lives reflect the power of community, as we walk hand in hand, bound by the love of Christ, eager to multiply disciples and impact our world for His glory.

In Christ's love and unity,