community

"Those with strong social connections but poor health habits (eating, exercise, etc.) are just as healthy as those with good health habits but weak social connections."  This is an amazing fact that I came across today. 

I am a fairly introverted person, though some would see me otherwise.  This year at the PC (aka "Pastor's College") I have seen my uncomfortability in large groups.  I have had to examine the "why" of this by asking for others' input.  I'm thankful for the close friends God has gifted me with.  They know most everything that needs to be known and some things that probably didn't need to be known. 

We have friends, unbelievers, who have watched us as we interact with our community of friends.  They desire a similar community.  But I must say this: true, life-giving community can only stem from the love of God, who is already in community as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  He speaks into our lives through his Word, through His Spirit, and through His people, the Church.  This is health and life to us.  This is why He tells us in His word, "do not forsake the assembly of yourselves together, as is the habit of some."  Lone rangers fall off their horses with nobody around to help them.  I don't want to put myself into that kind of danger.  The solution: living in the light with others.