David, This statement from the early Harvard documents is a fine reminder of what life is all about. Today I began reading from the book you sent me, "The House Church," by Del Birkey. There are some great insights so far.

Since 1995 we have not abandoned the concepts of House Church even though we felt God has helped us to see we are not in competition to other churches. It is our love for one another in Christ that should be the distinguishing factor, even when we disagree.

One point I appreciate in this book is that of Paul's concept of the church as a family and also the Body of Christ. The fact is that the human body is an amazing living thing. When properly nourished and protected it will regenerate itself and reproduce as well.

While we know that we are at war with outside forces trying every day to destroy us, there can also be those things within the community that hinders our growth.

Sadly we have developed many good things that can easily hinder true spiritual growth in the church today. May we be faithful to discard them when He makes them known to us.