Keep On Trucking

Despite my Oregon “country” roots growing up, I entered my 40s having never owned a truck. Through careful planning and savings, my wife and I agreed on a used “old-school” model, almost as old as I am. After a few trips around town, I immediately realized my identity had changed. I was now a “truck guy!” I was treated differently. Even when I tried to explain my newbie status (I have a Prius in my driveway), no one seemed to care. I had joined the fraternity of truck owners. 

A similar and more meaningful identity is assumed when we choose to follow Christ. We are called children of God, and so we are! Our old identity has passed away, and we are each a new creation in Christ. Regardless of how little we have “owned” our faith, or how poorly we understand the “mechanics” of our faith, we have immediate entrance in God’s growing Kingdom.

Throughout the month of October, the theme of “fellowship with one another” will be explored according to God’s design. Our vertical relationship with God creates a deep horizontal connection with other believers through our common union with Jesus Christ. His commandments to love God and love others flow directly from being loved by God and by others. God’s purpose for fellowship is for us to continue to grow our faith and grow His Kingdom.

As a rookie truck owner, I initially reached out to my newfound community of other truck enthusiasts. We shared common interests, and I learned a great deal from them. But over time, I let my own insecurities and distractions distance me from those contacts and conversations. Without their support, my aged engine fell into disrepair. My daily driver did not leave my driveway, and it is currently stuck at the mechanic’s shop.

“If we say we have fellowship with Him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”  1 John 1:6-7

Avoiding fellowship with God and with community can create an unhealthy darkness. But when we pursue Him and His design, His community surrounds us with so much support. Fellowship is a gift that comes from following Christ. It is also a muscle that requires regular exercise. I hope I can keep my truck running well through constant connection with truck guys smarter than me. I plan to keep my faith growing by investing in relationships that challenge me, correct me, and encourage me. 

Please pray that the fellowship of the CCS community grows closer to God’s design. May our children grow to value fellowship with other believers, guiding their faith with firm conviction into their next community!