When first checking into Camp McCrady, I was a little surprised that all the Navy Commanders would have to share an open bay barracks. I have realized that it has been a good thing for us sharing this living space. It has fostered camaraderie and cooperation among us. If we each had our own suite, we would be spending much time separated in silence. But as it is, we collaborate constantly on what we have learned and techniques that we have picked up, not to mention the sharing of numerous “sea stories.” One of the commanders just showed me his log book from primary training where we flew together on Jan 11, 1996 on his seventh familiarization flight in the T-34C. All of this has led to a relationship building situation where we have achieved in three days something we would not have achieved in three weeks if we had our own rooms. This camaraderie is a necessary thing when we are to operate as fluid team anticipating each others movements and watching each others backs.

If I were to take this concept tangentially and relate it to the Church and particular congregations, we could see that the same principles apply. If we confess to be Christians, there are concrete reasons for us to be in church on Sunday mornings; namely for the forgiveness bestowed in Word and Sacrament. But there is also the relationship with other Christians that is necessary for any congregation to properly care for their brothers and sisters; to know their habits and behaviors and to notice when another is hurting and the familiarity enough to ask and show genuine concern. If a congregation doesn’t live together in worship, sharing in the history of salvation it transforms from a family or community into simply a collection of like minded individuals.

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Acts 2:42

Peace to you in Christ Jesus, who chose to become man and dwell among us. + TES