The Upper Room Devotional 11 May 2026, Monday Message
Holy Community
Mary Ellen Hazen (Ohio, USA)
Today’s Reading
Revelation 22:16-17
The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life. – Revelation 22:17 (NIV)
Driving in an older section of our town, we passed by a historic, majestic church building. A sign out front announced its closure and gratitude for the 110-plus years of its service to the community. I felt an overwhelming sadness as I imagined all the weddings, baptisms, and other celebrations that would no longer be held there. I also thought of the somber occasions — the funerals, the broken families seeking refuge. I imagined the people of that church praying with and for each other, sharing in their joy and grief.
Today, worship takes many forms. For some it is an online event. Others feel that the Lord doesn’t require four walls or a church community to worship God. There is truth to that. We can worship anywhere and anytime.
But for me, church is the place where I experience God with other believers, and being part of that has been a dynamic experience. There is something special about people of different ages and backgrounds joining together as a church family to worship God. Together we reach into our community and around the world to promote God’s word and to support and help each other.
What a joyous feeling it is to join with others in a shared love for God!
Thought for the Day
I find holy community when I worship God with others.
Prayer Focus
Those looking for a church to join
Today’s Prayer
Dear Lord, we worship you and offer all praise and glory in Jesus’ name. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 11 May 2026 is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More