Some time ago, my wife and I read a book together, Growing Up Amish. It’s a true story and a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Amish community.
Although their religious practices seem to be extremely legalistic, there are lots of things about the Amish community that I like and respect. One of those is their harvest methods. During the harvest season, it is not at all unusual to see numerous neighbors all working together in a single field. Then, when that field is completed, they move on to the next … and the next. Together.
The sense of true community found in the Amish setting is amazing. It’s like a big extended family. They all see themselves as part of one another’s lives.
It seems to me that this is a great picture of what the Church is supposed to be like.
We are not just a collection of individuals, but all together, intentionally and purposefully placed together by God. We may not all agree on everything, but we’re family, nevertheless. Take a look at how often in the New Testament letters we are referred to as “brothers” – literally dozens of times. We are family.
Maybe we could learn a lesson from the Amish and work together. But more than just harvesting some food for our tables, we would work together to accomplish the purposes of God.
To Make You Think 
Agreed Tom. In fact, I learned a huge lesson from the movie “Amish Grace” which aired first in April 2010. It was the push I needed to extend grace when my flesh rebelled at the thought. Thanks for making us think.
Thanks for the encouragement, Les. Good movie, by the way.