Community

As we've been living here in Sydney and figuring out exactly what a 'church' is, one thing we know for sure is that it is a community. It is full of people who care about each other, and others, and is willing to help one another out. Well, these past few weeks I've been able to experience that, and it is great!

Probably most of you don't know, but Jess and I just moved apartments last week. However, before we moved we wanted to do a little work at the knew place. George, a great friend and a guy who has been going to the group meetings on Sundays, was helping us peel wall paper off the wall one day (Thank You!) which was turning out to be a long and arduous task. Needless to say, we were worried we weren't going to have it done by the time we moved in.

Suddenly George came on an interesting idea. He suggested we ask some of the guys to spend the next night, which we have designated as 'Guy's Night', to help do the rest of the room we were working on. I was all for help, but 'Guy's Night' is usually a time we take to play games and relax and I didn't want to take that away from them unless they were willing. Well, they were willing and the next night a group of guys was over at our knew apartment working away. It was very encouraging and a great help to have them there, I almost couldn't believe it. The men took a few hours out of their own time to strip the walls of our kitchen and even were able to get a few coats of primer on it as well as the hallway. In the end, because of their help Jess and I were able to get what we wanted done to the apartment before moving in.

Now that we are moved in and in the process of unpacking, I am very thankful to all the guys who helped us that night; and to those who wanted to, but were unable for one reason or another. It was an amazing example and learning experience to me of what a community is. As the 'Church' we are to help those in need, but also be there for each other. Not only is it great to see that being lived out in Sydney, but also causes me to reflect if that is being lived out in my own life. I want to be part of the 'community'.

-Nate

P.S. I also want to say a big thank you to Matt and Terra for opening up their hope for us the other day when we had to go to Halifax for a meeting about my Permanent Residency. They took time out of their busy schedule to hang out with us! Also, to Heidi for her great friendship! It's great to have friends who are willing to help, and even do small acts of random kindness!