It’s clear from social media and the news how vastly Covid-19 is spreading again, and we knew it wouldn’t be long until it came closer to home. In our case, within the last couple of weeks, the virus entered into our household which resulted in us self-isolating. But also, as we have someone quite vulnerable living with us, we even had to isolate away from my each other in our own rooms! I have almost completed two weeks of isolation now, and the end is in sight! I cannot wait to escape the confinement of my room! At first it wasn’t too bad; I caught up on some Netflix series, did some reading, worked on a few bits and pieces etc. However, I find my own company rather boring, and I’ve really missed just being with my family, so quite honestly I’m fed up with isolating now! Even though we have often facetimed each other to talk, it’s not the same as being in the same room; just knowing that they are there. Our natural instinct is to want to be with other people, to have some form of human interaction (Okay, I’ll admit that sometimes too many people is not for me! But you know what I’m trying to say).
This is also the case with my church family. This year has been so strange not being able to meet with one another. Technology has been amazing in allowing us to still have our services and ‘see’ others, but it is still not the same. The Bible shares on many occasions the importance of fellowship. Fellowship can be described as building a community of God-centred people, who are there to support and encourage when we’re feeling low. We all experience difficult times, yet by being with others in fellowship this can often lift us up and give us some much needed encouragement. God will work through others to provide us with what we need in those darker times. It reminds us that we are not alone; that there are other people who are experiencing the same trials as we are, and through fellowship, we can share our own situations to encourage.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:24-25
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Fellowship is firstly importance because it reflects Jesus. He spent most of His time around other people; whether sharing the gospel to a large crowd, or eating a meal with His disciples. We are called to be a part of God’s family, and have a responsibility for caring and looking out for our fellow brothers and sisters of Christ.
“And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.”
1 John 4:21
When we are part of a fellowship, we are surrounded with like-minded people who can help us to remain accountable to the standards of God, whilst not judging others in the process. Also, being with other Christians, can better support us to focus more on strengthening our relationship with Christ. Now, I’m not saying we should only ever hang-out with Christian friends! We also need to remember our role of being the ‘light’ to those who do not yet know Christ for themselves. It’s about balancing between the two. When we spend time with other believers, we are given the chance to learn and grow in our faith, and it provides us with much needed strength. When we come together in fellowship we can teach each other things, pray for one another and worship God.
“But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from all sin.”
1 John 1:7
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”
Proverbs 27:17
As I mentioned before, this year has been especially hard with shielding, isolating and lockdown restrictions, to be able to spend any ‘real’ time in fellowship. Nevertheless, we can still try to follow the principles of fellowship; offering encouragement, showing love and praying for each other. By checking in with one another over the phone, sharing bible verses via social media, maybe holding a Zoom bible study etc. Nowadays there are many opportunities to still stay connected!
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.”
Romans 15:5
I am so very much looking forward to the day where social distancing is more relaxed or better still non-existent, so we are once again able to meet again with our family and friends, and especially to be part of fellowship again within my church. Until then, let’s do what we are able to now, to encourage one another and hold each other up, to keep that community of love going strong, and to support our faith whilst we are apart.
“How good and pleasant is it when God’s people live together in unity!”
Psalm 133:1
Take Care!
God Bless 🙂 x
STEADFAST 