Something To Ponder
In our busy lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, forgetting the importance of slowing down and connecting with one another. But as followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to fellowship, to be in community, and to support and uplift each other. Today, I invite you to ponder what true fellowship looks like and how we can embrace it in our daily lives.
The Bible provides us with numerous examples of fellowship. In Acts 2:42-47, we see a beautiful picture of the early church:
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”
This passage paints a vivid picture of a community that is deeply connected, not just in physical presence but in heart and spirit. Their fellowship was marked by shared teaching, prayer, breaking of bread, and a profound sense of unity. They supported each other selflessly, ensuring that no one was in need.
Jesus Himself exemplified this kind of fellowship. He spent time with His disciples, teaching them, breaking bread with them, and praying with them. He welcomed the marginalized, the outcast, and the sinner, showing us that true fellowship transcends social barriers and prejudices.
In John 15:12-13, Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us:
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
This command challenges us to embody Christ’s love in our relationships. It calls us to sacrificial love, to prioritize the well-being of others, and to foster an environment where everyone feels valued and loved.
So, how can we foster this kind of fellowship in our church and community? Here are a few practical steps:
- Be Present: Make an effort to be physically and emotionally present in the lives of others. Attend church services, small group meetings, and community events. Your presence alone can be a source of encouragement and support.
- Listen Actively: Take the time to listen to others. Show genuine interest in their lives, struggles, and joys. Sometimes, the greatest gift we can give is a listening ear.
- Share Meals: There is something special about sharing a meal with others. Invite someone over for dinner, or organize a potluck at church. Breaking bread together can deepen relationships and create lasting bonds.
- Pray Together: Prayer is a powerful tool for fostering fellowship. Pray with and for each other. Lift up each other’s needs, and celebrate answered prayers together.
- Serve One Another: Look for ways to serve those around you. It could be as simple as offering a ride, helping with a chore, or providing a meal. Acts of service demonstrate Christ’s love in tangible ways.
- Be Vulnerable: Authentic fellowship requires vulnerability. Share your struggles, fears, and victories. Allow others to support and pray for you. In doing so, you create a safe space for others to be vulnerable as well.
- Welcome Everyone: Jesus welcomed everyone, regardless of their background or status. Strive to create an inclusive community where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
As we ponder the importance of fellowship, let’s commit to living out these principles in our daily lives. Let’s strive to create a community that reflects the love and unity exemplified by the early church and commanded by Jesus. In doing so, we not only strengthen our bonds with one another but also draw closer to Christ, who is the foundation of our fellowship.
May we be a church that loves deeply, supports selflessly, and reflects the heart of Jesus in all our interactions. Let us be a beacon of light and love in our community, inviting others to experience the joy of true fellowship.
Blessings,
David Adkisson
