Gathering

There is something powerful about gathering, linking arm in arm, standing shoulder to shoulder and in one another's presence. There is something incredibly powerful, energizing, and life giving when we gather- for one person and one reason only, Jesus. While my family is grateful for online worship during this season, there is no comparison to being live and in person. I miss the act of gathering corporately, particularly for worship and praise through songs. I can't explain the high or thrill that I get, it's simply electrifying and energizing. You actually *think* you sound better belting alongside the "professionals." Ha! All of this reminds me of God's beautiful design and intent for us and his church. We were created for connection, fellowship, to gather and to grow together. We were not made for isolation. We were created to come close and to be close. 

No wonder scripture is very clear in saying this, "And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25. 

I like the passion translation, it's really fitting for this new normal we are in, "Discover creative ways to encourage others and to motive them toward acts of compassion, doing beautiful works as expression of love. This is not the time to pull away and neglect meeting together, as some have formed the habit of doing, because we need each other! In fact, we should come together even more frequently, eager to encourage and urge each other onward as we anticipate that day dawning." 

I choose to hold on to hope that we will gather again soon, unrestricted and unhindered. There will be a day where we will not need to social distance, wear face masks or fumble through awkward hugs and quick hellos. We will be able to come close, give hugs, touch, linger and enjoy one another's company. Until that day, I'm pressing onward and maximizing this gift before me and doing life with my people. I want to continually grow in being the truest and most authentic version of myself so when God allows, it will be all the sweeter among true community as God intended, designed, and just as my heart has longed for.