Be together. There is strength and wisdom in that instruction. I don’t always recognize that because I’m an introvert and those can be hard words. We are made to be together, to complement each other’s strengths, to encourage and lift up when needed.
After the crucifixion, we see that the disciples were gathered together. They were hurting and even frightened as they had just lost their leader and teacher, One who had reached out and chosen them. They sought solace together.
We see them together again after the ascension. And when the Spirit came on them on Pentecost they were meeting together in one place. Now, through the Spirit, we are actually made one. Our together is not only physical, but spiritual as well, yet we are still reminded to be with one another.
Actually, not just reminded, but God instructs His people to gather together. He commands the feasts - to celebrate, to remember, to worship, to build identity together. The Church meets for the same purpose.
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:35
Together is important. Sometimes it’s easy and sometimes it’s not. When we come together let’s be intentional to spur one another on. Encourage one another. Love one another. Be patient with one another. Be happy with those who are happy and grieve with those who grieve. All those admonitions are important because when we’re with one another we can also chafe against one another. But God uses even that to grow us up, mature us in the faith and make us Christ-like. So when we come together, let’s make the most of our time. Let’s be present with one another.
As we come together, our joys become multiplied and our burdens divided. We become reminders to one another of God’s faithfulness whether in celebration or grief. We are each working out our individual calling yet we are bound together. I need you, even in my introvertedness. I’m grateful that you need me, too.
Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. Ephesians 4:1-4
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