I was reminded again today of the distinct need that every individual has for community. Occasionally I will meet someone and be reminded of the severe pain of loneliness and how it has no place in the Church. Today I read of a Toddler and mother who were found dead in Omaha apartment. According to the Associated Press:

Omaha police say a woman and her toddler have been found dead in their southeast Omaha apartment, and the pair appear to have been dead for some time.Police say foul play is not suspected in the deaths of 43-year-old Janelle Browning and 21-month-old Ezekiel Berry. Police say it appears the child may have been searching the apartment for food before his death.Police Capt. Mary Newman says police were called Monday after a friend of Browning’s reported that Browning hadn’t been seen for several weeks. When apartment officials checked the apartment, they found her dead inside. Police later found the boy.Police have not said when they believe the two died. Unopened presents remained under a Christmas tree in the apartment, Newman said.

 

Imagine, this toddler lived for at least two weeks, no doubt crying but no one heard. Or at least no one listened. This reminds of how depraved our world really is that this mother had no one in her life who cared enough to check on her for 3 weeks. But my point is that this cannot it must not be so within the Church. Let this be a reminder to all of us that “People Matter”. That is why the ministry of small groups exists. People matter, so Reach out to them, call them, check on them. Let them know they are loved.