The term self-isolation wasn’t on anyone’s radar in February. Still, now we find ourselves saying it, hearing it, and experiencing it every day. To be alone is not natural. We’re built for community (Gen. 2:18, Hebrews 10:24-25, Acts 2:42-47). 

Thankfully, the Bible describes a community beyond merely being together. It speaks of each of us being unique members of a community called the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27). The body of Christ includes people who have “heard the word of truth, the gospel of salvation, believed in Him and were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit” (Ephesians 1:13). This community is worldwide, and we, as believers, have the privilege to be a part of it. 

You see, the Bible reminds us that the church does not have to see one another to care for each member. While we cannot physically gather as a church community, we still have communion with God, and we have an extended community around the world.   

Global community and partnership

COVID-19 is teaching us something different. It’s showing us what our communities are capable of against adversity. And we are seeing the power of partnership within the body of Christ. This approach is not new for Partners International Canada. Partnership anchors our mission. It is the most effective way to build the church and transform communities. Last year, we assisted 127,491 people, planted 522 churches, and impacted 8,000 communities through our work together.   

The partnership we speak of is effective because it involves the global community of believers, that is, us here in Canada and our partners in countries around the world. Ministries like Mahima Homes, India; TETMI, Nigeria; and EMAF, Brazil, though they may be far away, are fellow members of God’s global community. 

With this in mind, rather than only longing to return to our church communities for Sunday service—may we receive a new vision of the extensive global community that God has placed us in to do His work. How is your church engaging in the global community? What are some ways you can help strengthen this community from where you are in the world?