This past week, those of us who live in Juneau experienced the beauty of several sunny fall days. As one who has lived in Southeast Alaska for any length of time knows, these sunny days are few and far between.
Sooner rather than later, the sun is replaced with clouds and rain. Having lived through the darkness, we have learned to celebrate the sun whenever it shines down on us.
On a sunny day, we are able to clearly see the beauty that surrounds us and enjoy God’s creation. One of the benefits of living in a rainy climate is it allows us to fully enjoy the clarity and brilliance of a sunny day.
Life is like that, isn’t it? Sometimes it takes living through the dark times to fully enjoy and recognize that life is a gift. The gift of life is better experienced when we live in community with others.
As we begin to notice the disappearing minutes of daylight and settle into our fall routines, let’s make an intentional effort to stay connected with others. As we journey through this life, we need to live in community with others. Moments of solitude and rest are needed and beneficial, but it is not healthy to isolate for too long. It is easy in our day and age to have a lot of acquaintances, but we have to make an effort to share our lives with someone. Do you have a small group of friends that you are connected with? If not, I would encourage you to take steps necessary to bridge that gap and to relationally connect with someone in your current group of acquaintances.
As a Christian, when looking for wisdom or insight on how to live, I turn to the Bible. When reading about how Jesus Christ lived while he was here on earth, it is evident that Jesus lived in community with others. He spent some of his time with large groups of people, a bit more of his time was spent with his many friends and family, even more of his time was spent with the 12 disciples, and within that group of 12 he spent the most time with Peter, James and John. This is a healthy model for relationships. It is so important to have that inner circle of friends and family that we can share our lives with.
Just like Jesus Christ took time away from the busyness of his life for times of quiet reflection and prayer, we would benefit from doing the same. However, it is not healthy to stay alone, separated from others, for too long. We need each other. It is vital for our own well-being and the well-being of others in our community to stay connected. It is also important to note that just like Jesus had different levels of connectedness, so too should we.
One practical way to live in community is to attend a church that shares your beliefs and to get involved. A local church is a place where you can learn and grow and stay connected with others.
During my time as the executive director of Love In the Name of Christ (Love INC), I have seen firsthand the positive power of living in community and the negative effects of isolation. Love INC Juneau is a partnership of over 20 churches, who come together to partner with neighbors in need within our community to assist them in practical ways as they strive to transform their lives in positive ways.
Transformation and growth require all involved to be willing to connect at least for a short time to walk this journey of life together. It is exciting to see individuals and churches living life in community with one another. Let’s make an intentional effort to stay connected and to live in community with others.
To learn more about Love INC and to enjoy yummy desserts, please join us for our annual Love INC Auction on Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. at Chapel by the Lake. Tickets ($25) are available beginning Nov. 2. For more information call the Love INC office at (907) 780-4090.
• Wendy Wall is the executive director of Love INC Juneau, www.loveinc.juneau.org.
