Connections

All of us have people we miss. Whether that’s a loved one who has passed away or a friend we haven’t seen for a while. Sometimes that missing hurts so bad we don’t know what to do about it. Other times it’s just a longing that we experience. But then we can miss people in general. We get so caught up in our own little worlds that we just miss connecting with other people or seeing familiar faces where we expect them.
And, sure, there are times when I need to be alone. Times when I don’t want to see anyone and just need to have peace and quiet. Sometimes that’s a few hours. Sometimes it’s a few days. But then after whatever time that is, I desperately need human contact.
Thankfully I live in a community that I can find that pretty readily. A walk down to the bank or gas station or the grill is quickly met by a warm and friendly smile. And I’m so incredibly thankful that I can find both time away for refreshment and relational connectedness easily in my world.
But then I look back over the past few weeks of Sunday mornings. And I’m not trying to guilt anyone, just observing my emotions. But I’ve missed people these last few weeks. Part of it was my absence and part of it was weather, but I miss them.
I miss seeing their warm smiles and their presence. I miss being able to ask them about their weeks and how they are doing. But mostly I feel like I miss our opportunity to relate to one another over our common faith in Jesus.
One of my kids asked me last Saturday night why we need to go to church. And I get that, I was the same way at his age. And I had a hard time articulating why I felt like it was so important for him to be at church. But after some thought, I was able to find why I need to be in church.
Mostly, I find myself needing that connection. I need to see their smiles. I need to shake their hands. I need to know that I’m not alone in this world and that others face similar trials and temptations as I do. I need to hear their words of encouragement and know they are praying for me. I need to know I’m loved. I need to have those relationships with neighbors and friends to help me through the difficult times and share in the joys of life.
And I pray that you receive that from your local church. If you don’t, consider praying how you can change that. The local church should be a place where we are loved and encouraged but also a place where we can continually grow together. God bless.