We all go through life meeting many people who intersect our lives in an impactful way. Many remain acquaintances, either through proximity or personality. Some become friends, even close friends. Those with whom you interact on some kind of regular and cordial basis. My mother had quite a list of friends that fell into this category. Even if she moved away, which happened quite often being a military family, they would remain close through her Christmas card list. She would regularly send out anywhere from 200 to 250 Christmas cards a year; back when mailing cards when still was in vogue. And if, for whatever reason someone fell out of favor, the friendship was disassociated, and they were dropped from the Christmas card list. That was just my mother. But then a few individuals cross our path, and they become best friends. Aside from my wife, I have two guys that I have known for literally decades who are truly best friends. Guys I can go for months without having contact with, yet at any time I can pick up the phone and we can pick up where we left off; and they know they can do the same with me. Authentic fellowship is a vital aspect of stability and encouragement. This is most especially true when it comes to our church family. As a church family, we share the most important common factor: Jesus. We rely on that fellowship for accountability, friendship, prayer, advice, and the list goes on. The second chapter of Acts beautifully describes this kind of fellowship. They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles, breaking of bread, and having everything in common. It is for this reason that so much emphasis is placed on the fellowship of Believers. You cannot recreate that in a video call, or by watching a service online. We are commanded to not forsake the gathering of one another (Hebrews 10:25). Matthew 18:20 tells us that when we are gathered in his name, “there am I in the midst of them.” There are so many opportunities during the week for Believers to come together. Sunday mornings, to be sure, but also activities such as Bible studies, special lunches, day trips, and more. And perhaps one of the most important are growth groups; where you come together regularly for fellowship, food, and studying God’s Word. And from these activities come good friends and authentic friendship. It is said we make time for the things we really want to do. Is having authentic fellowship one of them?
