It’s that time of year. Perhaps you’ve noticed it. Birds are flocking together and sitting atop wires along the road. Apparently, this is a phenomenon that occurs in the fall, as the weather begins to cool. I suspect there are other times of the year that it happens, but autumn is when it is most obvious to me.

Since I’m not an expert on bird behavior, I “Googled” it. Why do birds gather on power lines? I found a few interesting pieces of information. First, some birds gather in this way at dawn and dusk for protection. They are able to look for predators and you know there is always safety in numbers.

Then there is the migration staging reason. When they are organized in this fashion, it takes less effort to “head south.”

They also gather in this fashion for companionship and to find a mate. Kind of like on-line dating. Ha. Get it?

And then, there is a thing called “loafing.” Their bellies are full and they want to chill. And what better place to do so than with a few hundred other birds?

Community is just as important to birds as it is to us. Friendship, companionship, and common interests draw humans together. The desire to be loved and accepted are important for us and we tend to be attracted to people who are like us.

Today, let’s look at some of our biblical friends who were part of communities.

People have gathered together since the beginning of time. Genesis 11 shares the account of people gathering to build a city with a tower that would reach to the heavens. They wanted to make a name for themselves. Unfortunately, this was not part of God’s plan and caused confusion among the workers. Ultimately, this band of friends split up because of communication issues.

In another situation, a group of men (an army) gathered at the “spring of Harod.” They were set to fight against the Midianites and Gideon had been guaranteed a victory. But once again, God said “no” and sent all but 300 men home. God was able to use these men to defeat the Midianites (Judges 7:1-25).

In the New Testament we find a decree from Caesar Augustus demanding a census be taken. Everyone needed to go to their hometown. Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem and it’s during this great gathering that Jesus, the Messiah was born (Luke 2:1-7).

There were other times when community gatherings were celebratory. Think of the Jewish feasts. The Feast of Trumpets (Nehemiah 8:1-12). Purim (Esther 9:17-19). The Passover (Luke 2:41-52; John 12:12-19). The Feast of Dedication or the Feast of Lights (John 10:22-24). And Pentecost (Acts 2:1-41).

Oh and what about gatherings to learn of God’s ways? John the baptizer drew crowds (Luke 3:7-18). Jesus drew lots of crowds (Matthew 5:1-2; Matthew 14:13-21; John 12:9). Jesus taught also in the temple (Mark 11:27-12:44).

And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention a few intimate gatherings. Jesus called His first disciples (Matthew 4:18-22). Jesus clarified His teachings with His disciples (Matthew 13:36). Jesus called for greater faith (Matthew 14:25-33). Jesus gathered little children to Himself (Matthew 19:13-15). Jesus had a conversation with a rich young man (Mark 10:17-31). And who could forget the message Jesus delivered to Martha (Luke 10:38-42)?

After Jesus’ resurrection, we see Him continue with these intimate gatherings. There is the walk from Jerusalem to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35). His appearance to the disciples (Luke 24:36-49). And the restoration of Peter (John 21:15-19).

Community. Gatherings. Living life together. It was important in the Bible and it is important to us today.

If you are not connected to a local church or part of a small group who studies the Bible, I would encourage you to get connected. Are you looking to find God’s plan for your life? If so, the church and Bible study groups are a great way to seek God. Why not get connected today?

Just like the early church, we find great comfort in being together. I pray that today you’re able to be part of a community as they did in Acts 2:46-47 (NIV). “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.”

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna