21 Days to Sweeter FriendshipsSample

Gathering Together

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV

One of the churches in my neighborhood recently posted a large banner outside the main entrance to the sanctuary. The sign is white with huge black letters. It reads, “Welcome Home!”

For many of us, it’s been a while since we were in church, in person. Months and months of coffee, pajamas and online worship have taken the place of getting up, dressing up, and gathering to meet with fellow believers.

As the church doors begin to reopen and we begin to meet again, let’s get our hearts ready and remember why we gather in community with others.

What are some of the great benefits of meeting together (instead of just virtually)?

1. We stir each other up to love.
2. We spur each other on to good works.
3. We encourage each other and lift each other up.
4. We need to be together – especially as the Day of Christ’s return draws near.
5. We hold each other accountable and need to see each other face to face and eye to eye. It keeps us walking on the best and highest paths.

Prayer– Lord, would you enable me to get back into fellowship with other believers again? It’s so easy to pour a cup of coffee and watch online. Would you give me the grace and the faith to gather again with Your people?

Reflect– What does church look like for you right now? Do you expect this to change in any way? As you look ahead, in what ways could you add more fellowship, community, and gathering to your week? What would you like for your worship to look like in this next year?