A Norvell Note for April 12, 2021
Vol. 23 No. 14
It’s Good to Be Together
For only the second time in over a year, we met together with fellow believers. The group was small, and the shady front yard of one of our families was our cathedral. A few white wispy clouds only broke the blue sky, and a gentle breeze brushed our skin. As neighbors strolled, jogged, and biked past us, we sang, listened to the Word, and remembered the sacrifice of the Savior.
These words came to mind.
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 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 10:23-25, NIV)
None of those attending had given up meeting together on purpose, so being together again was particularly meaningful for these reasons.
I needed to focus on the faithfulness of God. Isolation creates space for doubt to take up residence. The distance can cause suspicion and second-guessing. Doubt, fear, and second-guessing can be killers to the soul without regular opportunities for spiritual fellowship.
I needed the reminder of practicing love and good deeds. Perhaps like you, I’m tired. The last year has been challenging. The last several years have been difficult and tiring. Fatigue can make it hard to be loving and diminish the desire to do good deeds. Listening to others share stories of struggle and victory restore the desire to keep going.
I needed to remember that I am not alone on this journey. Most of us have experienced some level of loneliness. Telephone calls, texting, Facebook, FaceTime, Twitter, and Zoom have been invaluable in helping us stay in touch with each other, but it’s not the same. Being physically present with others who share the faith journey reminds me that I am not alone on this journey.
I need to focus on God’s faithfulness. I needed the reminder to practice loving and doing good deeds. I need to remember that I am not alone on this journey. I am thankful that I met with my brothers and sisters today and look forward to the next opportunity, whenever that might be. I hope you can be back with your spiritual family very soon.
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