All people at all times have a thirst for spiritual things. People are not always aware of their thirst because they are filling their lives with alternatives to the Living Water. But on the inside, there is still a longing and an emptiness that only Jesus Christ can fill. Consider the following three thirsts that all men have in common:
The Thirst for Community - Everyone wants to have a place to belong. It is human nature to form ourselves into clubs, teams, unions, gangs and armies. Some of these can be beneficial, some can be dysfunctional. The word "church" means a called out assembly. It is not just being with other people, but it is a community that functions with a unique identity. No church will be 100% perfect since people are a part of it. Deer Creek is making an effort to model the type of community that was lived out by the Christians in the first century. This community is described in the book of the Bible known as Acts of the Apostles. Through weekend gatherings and, even more importantly, through small groups meeting throughout the week, that kind of community has the best chance to develop.
The Thirst for Purpose - One of the most common questions people ask is, "What on earth am I here for? What is my unique contribution that I am called to make in the world?" We believe that when people are being filled with God, and are participating in a community of others being filled with God, then they best find the opportunity to discover their purpose. In general it is to do everything for the glory of God. We worship God through our work, recreation, education and service to others.