One of the things I have not liked in most churches is how segmented it can become. It seems there’s a group for everything. Women’s groups, men’s groups, married groups (even young marrieds), singles groups, college groups, young adults, youth groups are also often sub-divided into high school, middle school, upper and lower elementary school, preschool, etc.

I remember being asked, why did I hang out with some of my married friends (with and without children). Once a friend who was married had been told that she shouldn’t spend time with me simply because I was single with no children. I supposedly had nothing in common with them.

Yet what my friends and I had in common were bible studying, outdoor activities, playing games, books we were reading, volunteering at a non-profit, etc.

In years past, all the women in a community would gather together to do an activity or project. Quilting, sewing, canning, cooking, etc.

The older women would pass down practical knowledge, as well as spiritual wisdom and insights. The younger women shared energy, creativity, and a fresh way to look at things. Those who were married shared about married life and those who were single would gain insight. Those who had already raised children offered encouragement and tips to those just starting a family.

Now, I see people of all walks of life trying to get answers to questions from social media, Wikipedia, Google or YouTube.

The key to good gatherings is to have a common task or project to engage in.

And contrary to modern thought, people without children can often offer insights and perspective to those with children. The same holds true when it concerns marriage. If this wasn’t true then much of the wisdom of the saints would have to be eliminated as well as most of the New Testament. Yet God’s wisdom can shine through any individual, no matter if they are married or single, with children or without, young or old, no matter their culture, background, race or gender. And as we have heard before, God uses the foolish and weak to confound the wise and strong.

We are the Body of Christ and each member of the body is important for the health of the whole. We are part of God’s family and each has an important talent to contribute.