Being Connected In A Disconnected World



This past week, I went on a men's ski trip to Colorado with a handful of guys from church and some of their friends.  I'm not a great skier by any stretch of the imagination, but I did get a solid day of skiing before getting sidelined by a wicked sinus infection.  

I'm also hobbling a bit from taking a few spectacular falls when I tried to move to steeper slopes without getting my technique down pat.  But that's beside the point. 

The most rewarding and amazing part of this trip was all that happened after skiing when we gathered for dinner, laughed, shared stories, and got to know one another better. 

One of the guys on the trip lives in Louisana and volunteered to make gumbo for us one evening.  It was a true gift to the group and was undoubtedly the best gumbo I've ever had.  

As I looked around the large table where we were eating, I was struck by the group's diversity in ages, backgrounds, and experiences.  It made me realize how much true connection we miss out on because we live in such a disconnected world.  

In a world that often pulls us in different directions, the value of being in community with others cannot be overstated. Community is not merely a collection of individuals; it is a tapestry woven together by shared experiences, aspirations, and understanding. 

This profound truth highlights the essential nature of community in our lives.

The Bible offers profound guidance on this matter. In Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV), it states:  

“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.” 

This passage underscores the significance of assembling together to uplift and inspire one another. In a community, we find encouragement and accountability, cultivating spaces where we can collectively share our visions and tackle challenges.

Community is also a powerful teacher. Mia Birdsong eloquently asserts in her book How We Show Up

“The truth is that we are all connected. We all understand the world through stories.” 

Sharing our stories allows one another to see the world from different perspectives. Each narrative becomes a vital thread in the fabric of a community, contributing to our collective understanding and empathy. 

Through these connections, we evolve and grow by learning from each other’s experiences—transforming our isolation into shared moments of learning, healing, and joy.

As we navigate life's challenges and uncertainties, it is easy to feel disconnected, especially in today's fast-paced environment. Yet, the antidote lies in actively seeking to cultivate our communities. 

Finding common ground amidst our differences fosters deeper relationships. It encourages dialogue, understanding, and collaboration. By embracing the diversity within our communities, we open ourselves up to new ideas and insights that we may never have encountered alone.

An important part of being in a community is our responsibility toward one another. It is essential to nurture these relationships, invest time, and create a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and seen. Reaching out, offering help, and being present for others can challenge the feeling of isolation that so often invades our lives. 

As we consider the importance of community, let us not forget to take action. Seek out those who inspire you, challenge you, and support you. 

Engage with your neighbors, explore local groups that interest you, or connect with like-minded individuals online. The world can feel unwelcoming, but remember, every effort counts. In this disconnected world, let us commit to fostering our communities, deepening connections, and celebrating the beauty of belonging together. 

After all, we are not meant to walk this path alone but rather together, inspiring and uplifting one another every step of the way.

May it be so for all of us, and may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us, now and forever. Amen.  

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