I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go into the house of the Lord.” Psalms 122:1 (NKJV)
Around 100 people gather each Saturday to worship at L Street Mission hosted at Central United Methodist Church in Brockton. While many of the congregation–the church–live outdoors, a good number from the shelter and others are struggling to make ends meet. Our doors open at 9:00 a.m., and volunteers serve coffee and donated goodies. Sometime soon after, there is a welcome, announcements, and invitation for prayer. Folks are invited to seek us out any of the volunteers at any time to share and pray together. Throughout the morning, folks are helped with clothing needs and personal care products. Before lunch, we share a verse of the day and tag-team share our thoughts on the scripture. This is followed by the church sharing in The Lord’s Prayer, usually in Spanish, Portuguese, and English, and a food blessing. After lunch, those who desire to receive Holy Communion may come forward.
Psalm 122:1 (NKJV) says, "I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go into the house of the Lord.'" This verse reminds us of the joy and anticipation that come with gathering together to worship. It's a feeling that resonates deeply with our community at L Street Mission.
But this joy isn't confined to L Street Mission alone—it's a universal experience for believers everywhere. The essence of gathering in the Lord's house transcends location and circumstance, uniting us as one body in Christ.
Church as the Body and Hospital: The church is more than just a building; it's the people who come together in Jesus' name. Whether we gather on a traditional Sunday morning or during our compassionate outreach on Saturdays, we are the body of Christ. Our mission reflects this, serving as a hospital for the sick, just like Jesus did. We offer a sanctuary for those facing all kinds of hardships, providing both spiritual and physical nourishment.
Community and Relationship: At L Street Mission, it's not just about giving; it's about receiving, too. Our volunteers aren't just givers—they are receivers as well. We are all in this together, supporting and uplifting each other. The relationships we build and the sense of community we foster are vital. This same principle applies to all of us, wherever we are. We come together, share in each other's joys and sorrows, and embody the true essence of being a family in Christ.
Flawed People in Need of Grace: We are all flawed and in need of grace. This truth is evident in our gatherings at L Street Mission. Psalm 122:1 reminds us of the importance of coming together in worship to find compassion, healing, and love. Our doors are always open, offering a place of refuge and support for everyone, whether they live outdoors or struggle to make ends meet.
Non-Traditional Gatherings: Our Saturday gatherings are a testament to the church's adaptability and inclusivity. Whether we meet in one another's homes for worship or on Zoom, we break the mold of conventional worship, meeting people where they are. These gatherings provide a unique space for individuals to experience the presence of God in a way that speaks to their current circumstances.
By living out the principles of Psalm 122:1, we ensure that the joy of entering the house of the Lord is accessible to everyone, regardless of their situation. This mission extends beyond any single congregation and is a universal call for the church to be a beacon of hope, compassion, and community.
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the joy and privilege of gathering in Your house, whether it be a grand sanctuary, a humble mission, or a virtual meeting. We are grateful for the supportive community where we share, support, and encourage each other, knowing that we are both givers and receivers of Your grace and love.
Help us to embody the principles of Psalm 122:1, finding gladness and anticipation in coming together to worship. May we always strive to be a beacon of hope, compassion, and community, extending Your love to all, regardless of their situation.
Bless our traditional and non-traditional gatherings and fill our hearts with Your presence. Guide us to show compassion and grace to one another, strengthening our bonds as the body of Christ.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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