"As a branch cannot bear fruit all by itself,
unless it remains part of the vine,
neither can you unless you remain in me."
This passage speaks hugely to me since I have spent a good part of my life being happy to do things on my own. I have battled a superiority complex where I have believed things like, "I'm right and you're wrong," and "No one can do it as well as I can, so I'll just do it myself." Although Jesus is talking about the importance of keeping the commandments and remaining part of the body of Christ, it is clear to me that he also makes a comment about the importance of humility and belonging in community. I have never been a patient person, and have always wanted change to occur on my terms and fast. In order for real change to occur and be lasting, it has to involve real buy-in from all the stakeholders involved, or at least a willingness to continue to dialogue through the change process.
There is no greater strength than that which is found in community. There is also no greater opportunity for personal growth than when people come together to solve problems. Just as significant is the content, i.e., the problem solved, is the process of solving the problem and the quality of the relationships that result. This truly gives glory to God, when we work in true community.
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