Intentional Community

Last week, my mom turned 70, and we had a birthday party in her honor over the weekend. It was a special time to gather with family and friends and to celebrate a woman who has impacted so many lives through her friendship and service.  

There were about 60 people gathered to celebrate, many of whom I didn’t know. As they approached me and introduced themselves, they told me about how they knew my mom. Some were friends from former jobs, some were friends from past churches, some were friends from their current church, and some were from ministries and organizations where she serves.  

Regardless of how they knew my mom, the message was the same - we love your mom. She is so kind and generous. We are so thankful for the ways that she loves others so well.  

I recently told my mom that she is a gatherer of people. She loves people, and she is kind and generous in her relationships with them. Even when their proximity changes, she makes the effort to stay connected. It’s pretty remarkable, actually.  

A few weeks ago, we were talking about the price of stamps. I hardly ever send mail with a stamp, so I never know what they cost. But my mom told me how she uses about 60 stamps a month! She is an avid letter writer. She sends thank you notes, birthday cards, anniversary cards, sympathy cards, thinking about you cards, etc. Her ability to make others feel seen and loved is a gift of hospitality.  

There were people at my mom’s party who I have known since I was a kid because she has been intentional about keeping those relationships going over the years.  

Looking around that room this weekend, I was reminded of the importance of community.

Community doesn’t come along by happenstance. It takes intentional effort. What that effort looks like from one generation to the next might vary, but at the heart of it is a genuine desire to connect with people and to let them know that they are seen, known, and loved.  

The way my mom welcomes others, loves others, and cares for others constantly points me to Jesus, and I am deeply grateful for that! 

~  Melissa