When Where You Meet Becomes Home ...

“Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for edifying, as fits the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4: 29)
When does a building become a Home?
Paul is telling us.
He uses a word, and 2 phrases to describe the quality of life among Christ’s Followers. If, in fact, these qualities characterize our life together then they represent the atmosphere in which we live. They determine whether or not someone would be at Home in such an environment.
“Edifying,” is not a word we use much anymore. The Greek term – Paul writes in Greek – is the word from which we get the English word “edifice.” And yes: it has to do with buildings and building. Conversation, in this House “where God lives by His Spirit,” is edifying. It builds up a person. It’s constructive. It’s helpful. It is genuinely kind. We are mutually inspired by the company we keep.
What goes on among Followers of Christ “fits the occasion.” You have a sense that things are appropriate. Everyone is comfortable. Folks feel like they’re cared for. Hospitality is in the air.
People who spend time with Christ’s Followers sense “Grace.” “Each word” of our conversation is “a gift.” (THE MESSAGE)
“Constructive,” “hospitable,” “graciously” generous: When a house is filled with people who take each other seriously; who feel better because they’re there; who treat each other graciously that house has become a “Home.”
A man once told me about his experience in a Recovery Group. He said, “I felt like I’d come ‘Home.’”
Oh! May the places we meet be “Home” to those who are there. A company of people who inspire a sense of worth and purpose in one another. People who really do care for each other. People of authentic Grace whose generosity dispels any doubt about whether or not you’re welcome. People you can count on!