Rev. Michael Kiewitt, Clearwater Community Baptist Church
I have been in this delightful municipality for a year now. It has gone by very quickly. When I first came to the area I greeted various people some of whom, not most, told me that the community was very cliquey. I’ve even heard Clearwater be termed “Cliquewater”.
A clique, for those who are unfamiliar with the word, is defined as a small, exclusive group of friends or associates. The implication is that Clearwater has within it groups of people that are close relationally and purposefully exclude others from joining said group.
In spite of what I have heard I don’t believe that there are cliques in Clearwater. I do believe that there are groups of people that get along well, however, I do not believe these groups are exclusive. At most these groups are comfortable with each other and do not feel the need to reach out to include others, but to say such groups actively exclude others is a bizarre accusation.
It seems more likely that those who claim Clearwater to be Cliquewater are lonely. Thus such people are revealing the aching need we all have to belong and be part of a group of people that love and care for one another. People claiming that Clearwater is a cliquey community are more than likely putting the responsibly of their loneliness on others as way of avoiding the terrible thoughts that tell them that they are unacceptable.
If this is you, don’t be embarrassed. Belonging is a fundamental need that God put in all of our hearts. The ache of loneliness you feel is God’s way of drawing you to Himself. This need to be accepted is satisfied by receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and joining a church community that fosters the love and acceptance of God.
Christianity is an invitation into a love relationship with God that is extended through his church.
Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke on you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and my load is not hard to carry.”