Read:

Matthew 22:37-39 “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”

Think:

Gathering around a table, enveloped in laughter, surrounded by friends, and savoring delectable food for hours—this is the epitome of pure joy! Time glides by, weaving new memories and rekindling old ones. It's a testament to our innate need for community and connection, a purpose woven into our very existence by God's own hand.

Our Creator, God, designed us for a life shared with others. Not only are we meant to walk alongside fellow humans, but we need to walk with him. This signifies that our yearning for nurturing, mutually beneficial relationships transcends mere desire; it is a reflection of our profound purpose. We were not simply crafted with community in mind; we were crafted because of it. We were made for him and by him.

However, our quest for fulfillment often takes a misguided turn. We frequently seek from people what only God can provide. This misconception lies at the heart of much of our discontent with one another. We place our hope in flawed, imperfect beings. Yet this hope can only find its true fulfillment in God himself. As Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us, eternity is embedded in our hearts, signifying that only a relationship with an eternal God can truly satisfy our souls.

Apply:

Maybe you are seeking fulfillment from someone versus fulfillment from God. Only he can satisfy. Ask him into your life. Seek him with your whole heart.

Pray:

God, thank you for modeling how we are to live in community with others through Jesus. Help me personally find deep community. Help me make friends and keep them as I live out my commitment to you, your Church and your plans for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.