Christ Who Forms Community | March 2026
Daphne Sidney
The Gospels reveal how Jesus built his ministry around relationships rather than possessions. From the outset with his disciples, his focus was clear. Come, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19 NKJV). In this process, Jesus drew a diverse group of disciples, drawing them into community for a shared journey with their Master. Day by day, they had opportunity to learn from Jesus. He taught through his words and actions revealing the Father’s love for them and for all peoples. As scripture tells us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son …” (John 3:16 NIV).
The most profound part of their journey was seeing Jesus fulfil his ultimate purpose on the cross. Yet, before that momentous time, Jesus gathered his disciples around a table. He spent time with them to prepare them for what lay ahead, knowing his time had come.
The apostle John wrote, “Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love” (John 13:1–2 NIV 1984). Jesus’ deep love for the disciples was so evident despite their failings, “loving them to the last” as it can also be expressed.
Even knowing betrayal was near, Jesus chose to serve every one of his disciples, including the one who would soon betray him. In a powerful act of love, after the meal, he took a towel and began washing their feet (John 13:5). This demonstration of service and humility towards his disciples was teaching them the very heart of God’s love and how to become fishers of men.
Afterward, Jesus prayed for them. “Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one” (John 17:11b NIV). He first prayed they would be one, as he was with his Father. And as Jesus continued to pray, he reminded them of their mission. “As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world” (John 17:18 NIV). Then his prayer extended to future believers, sending them that many may enjoy the oneness with the Father through Jesus.
Just as Jesus gathered his disciples throughout his earthly ministry, may we also gather and grow into a strong community. Empowered by the Spirit, we continue his work of bringing the kingdom near. As we participate in this relational ministry, may God unite us as one as we follow Christ. From this unity, may we welcome and faithfully disciple others into this loving relationship where belonging and community can flourish.
