I realize the image looks like a cell phone screen, and there’s no steeple, but in today’s world, this is a church.

Don’t get me wrong – the church building, generally with a steeple on top, is where the church people gather each week. We (hopefully) greet new people there, we get some group instruction/insight, we worship together & instigate worship in others, and we bring resources to share with people whether from excess or need. A building and a larger group is a good thing and worthy of our support. (Not to mention God’s command)

But recently, I’ve noticed that this small communication (and distraction) device in my hand brings me within immediate reach of my people, though they’re miles away. A hospital emergency, a check-in to see if all is well, a “while you’re there, pick up this,” a bit of encouragement and advice from someone who’s had a similar experience, an exasperated “can you believe this?!” in a safe environment. Live immediate care for one another.

Long ago, before private cars and multi-mile jaunts just to get milk & eggs, people were in small enclosed communities. Everyone knew, or thought they knew, everything about their neighbors – including what was for dinner. Entertainment was mostly a group thing, except for those who preferred books. It was common to say “that man’s sick, let’s mow the lawn so his daughter doesn’t have to” or “that lady has some odd ideas, but she makes the best pies – I need to learn from her.”  Respect and civility were necessary for survival – except for the ones who were determined to outdo others. Both Popeye’s Brutus and Little House’s Mrs. Olson display that well.

Now, we celebrate independence and the ability to get things done ourselves, our way. That’s not entirely a bad thing, until we believe we can’t reach out with a need… because as Ecclesiastes says, two are better than one because they can help one another regain footing or stay warm.

You might have noticed that life doesn’t happen at conveniently scheduled times. We need each other on random Tuesday afternoons when waiting until the next church gathering is way too long. That’s when we can pick up the phone and send a request to the intimate group committed to care for one another.

That’s a church in our cell phones.