For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, for you also endured the same sufferings at the hands of your own countrymen, even as they did from the Jews.  I Thess. 2:14

I love movies, especially those that capture the best of the human spirit. Long, drawn-out sagas are my favorite, though my husband, Ron, insists that watching grass grow is more exciting! I remain undeterred. Nonetheless, I am encouraged to see a few of the main characters work through their challenges and beat the odds.  Why?  Because it reminds me that I’m not alone.

That is why fellowship is so important. I’m not talking about idle chatter that too often happens around a pot-luck supper. This is a cheap substitute for what God had in mind.  I can call it ‘fellowship’ but I’m certain that every time I think I’m doing it, God winces and draws in His breath. Communion with other believers demands more of me. I must let others close enough to know what hurts, where faith is fractured, and what I am carrying that has become too heavy to carry alone.

Paul knew how to encourage the persecuted Thessalonians.  He reminded them that the Christians in Judea were also facing hardship.  They were not alone.  Hearing that, they were strengthened. Think about it ~ Sometimes knowing that someone else has survived the road you are walking also gives you courage to take another step.

This is one reason God’s family is so necessary. I eventually meet someone who knows something about my particular grief. Cancer. A hostile workplace. A wandering child. Betrayal. Spiritual abuse. We tell our stories and discover that shame loses some of its power when trials are brought into the light and carried together. 

Solomon said, “Two are better than one… If either of them falls, one can help the other up.” I would add something from my own experience. If one falls into unbelief, the other can remember God for them until they are able to remember Him again.

Like you, I have things weighing on my heart today. They feel personal and isolating. But I remember that I am not walking an untouched road.

Lord, help me be humble enough to let others carry me when I’m down and tender enough to carry them when their own faith fails . We are tangible evidence that You have not withdrawn Your presence. Amen