The Core Of Fellowship

This is what we proclaim to you: what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and our hands have touched (concerning the word of life— and the life was revealed, and we have seen and testify and announce to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us). What we have seen and heard we announce to you too, so that you may have fellowship with us (and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ). Thus we are writing these things so that our joy may be complete. (First John 1:1-4)

Our relationship with God is our source of joy. That relationship is like a wellspring, in which we are able to tap into the goodness of God. But, this delving into the Spirit-filled life is not accomplished by our own effort.

It is God who blesses His people with ears to hear, eyes to see, and mouths to testify. Because the Spirit of the Lord has made us aware of His presence and our need for Him, we are able to speak confidently of His life working in us.

It is God who moves His people to share His love; His love is the core of fellowship. If you have ever been on the receiving end of getting a “gift” shared under compulsion, then you know that charitable acts are not always correlated with love. It is only the presence and power of God's love that makes fellowship a loving, joyful exercise.

Dear God, our Source of joy, help us to deepen our relationship with You so that we can engage authentic fellowship with others. May our wellspring always be filled, Your Spirit overflowing in our lives, so that those who tap into us will encounter You. Bless us to love You; move us to love others. In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.