I've been thinking recently about 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, the passage where Paul describes us as being the body of Christ. While that analogy certainly fits the worldwide church, it seems to come to life for me when I think about it in terms of our specific congregation. I can identify individuals whom I see as gifted and serving with their hands, feet, ears, tongue, arms, hearts and knees. These individuals help the rest of us with their service, but they also grow in their own personal faith by obeying God and experiencing the joy of doing His work, which leads to continued fruitful service. Any faith growth in a congregant of our church therefore results in a direct benefit to the rest of us, as we are all interconnected in this body of Christ.

Those of us raised in the USA have not had much focus placed on "interconnectedness" in the past few decades. Our focus has been much more individualistic, as evidenced by the naming of an entire peer group as the "me" generation. I have been taught that Bible study is good for ME. Prayer is good for ME. Service is good for ME. And they are. But, my individual Bible study, prayer, and service is also good for US, the congregation of LCC. Could it be, then, that the opposite is also true? If I don't regularly participate in Bible study, prayer, and service, does that also hurt US? I might be willing to deal with the consequences of that personally, but I would think twice about skipping my prayer time if this could have a negative effect on my brothers and sisters in Christ at LCC.

So, how then can we grow in our faith and encourage the same in our body, the LCC congregation? Let me offer some suggestions:

Consider Christian camping! Many campers make significant commitments to Christ and find the tools, encouragement, and modeling needed to continue growing in their faith at camp. We wish to encourage children and adults to attend camp, so we offer a $100 rebate for day camp, half-week camps, and kids attending family camp. A $150 rebate is available for full-week overnight camps. Early bird registration discounts for both camps (Harbor and Point) end March 15, so hurry! (Remember to save your household items for the rummage sale – this benefits our camping rebate/scholarship fund!)

Consider joining a Bible study. Men's, women's, young adults', teens', and moms' groups are offered and are a great way to grow and encourage one another. If none of these fit with your schedule or needs, start one! We'll help you find the right materials and provide the encouragement!

Use the prayer room. No charge, virtually always available!

Finally, "come near to God, and He will come near to you" (James 4:8). May God bless us as we seek him both individually and corporately.