Longing for Belonging

“As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.” (Psalm 42:1 NLT)

The desire to belong, to be wanted and needed, is inherent in human souls. God placed this drive in us so that we may pursue Him, just as He pursues us. However, we often attempt to fill this need with  god-substitutes instead of with God.

“We made Jesus into a mere religion instead of a journey toward union with God and everything else. This shift made us into a religion of ‘belonging and believing’ instead of a religion of transformation.” (Richard Rohr)

Our longing to belong can only be satisfied by an intimate relationship with Christ. Yet, we try to fulfill this need by joining churches or socializing with other Christians. We attempt to find groups that fit our existing ideas. We settle for relationships with peers who share our beliefs. We are like teenagers who feel more comfortable on group dates. This immature stage of faith requires less from us. Intimacy demands maturity, attentiveness, and engagement. Those who are mature in their faith cannot compartmentalize their commitment. All aspects of their life will show evidence of their fullness and readiness. We become attentive when we want something desperately. We are finally ready to relinquish our pre-existing ideas. When we long for union with God above all else, our perceptions and attitudes are transformed. Our hearts become molded until we fit His intentions.

Lord, may we lay aside all substitutes as we pursue you wholeheartedly.