How Good and Pleasant It Is!
I’ve been thinking a lot about Psalm 133.1, “Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!”
We went for several months of not being together in person. We were connected through livestreaming and Zoom, but that was one-way communication. True connection and fellowship wasn’t happening.
Then, we went for several months of being together, yet being somewhat distant. We could worship in the same space, but it lacked something. Handshakes, hugs, and high fives were gone. For a time, we couldn’t even see each other smiling. Folks didn’t hang around long afterward.
As vaccinations increased, and as virus numbers have decreased, we can feel life getting back to normal in lots of ways. Stores are opening. Restaurants are filling. And thankfully, church buildings are becoming vibrant places for worship, fellowship, and connection again. “How good and pleasant it is!”
We were out of town a couple weeks ago and missed being with you all in person. But an inside source (aka, my father-in-law) sent me a short video during worship. It was a quick panning shot of a full auditorium and many of you in worship. It was so good to see so many of God’s family together again. My heart leapt. …”How good and pleasant it is!”
Last Sunday we honored our Class of 2021 graduates and their families. It was so good to share that milestone, rejoicing with those who rejoice and giving honor to whom honor is due. Jeff and all the young men who led did a wonderful job. And afterwards, it was good to see so many of the Northside family being like family again. Adults in conversation. Kids laughing and playing. And my heart leapt again. …”How good and pleasant it is!”
Hebrews 10.24-25 says, “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.” That verse has new meaning to me. Over the last several Sundays, simply being together has stirred me up and encouraged me in my faith.
For so long, fellowship with God’s people wasn’t an option. Or if it was, it was a limited option. Now these opportunities are ours again. Just think…
- Your family can be a part of your Bible class on Sundays at 9am.
- You can join us on Sunday nights at 6 pm again.
- You can meet with the family on Wednesday Nights at 7 pm for the Summer Speaker Series.
- Your whole family can enjoy extended fellowship and fun at Family Camp on May 28-31.
May we never again take fellowship for granted. May we understand it as a blessing and not a burden. May we take every opportunity to stir up one another toward love and good works. May we mutually encourage one another by meeting together. Behold how good and pleasant it is!