A few years ago, I attended my 50th Class Reunion for high school. The committee worked hard finding as many of us as possible and planned a special weekend. Memories of high school aren’t always sweet, but mine were pleasant. I had a group of friends from church who made the social side of high school fun. In a class of over 300, I felt overlooked by many people in different groups – athletic, popular, the really smart people, etc. I often knew people through friends of friends. I am an introvert, slow to make friends. I knew them, but I didn’t think they knew me.
At the reunion, however, many of the people whom I didn’t think knew me, intentionally came over to talk with me. One followed my blogs and wanted to thank me because they often encouraged her. I was a bit ashamed that I didn’t really remember much about my classmates. Had I missed opportunities in high school for making friends that might have lasted a lifetime? Was my timidity a source of loss? Apparently, you can still learn after high school!
Where else have I done this? At work? Did I listen to someone give me their opinion about another and then steer clear of getting to know that person? Or did I talk with everyone and form my own thoughts? Was I a pleasant person as a co-worker? Did I avoid talking to someone to whom God wanted me to witness? Did I miss more people who would have been great friends?
What about at church? I’m in the older group who have been friends for decades. Do I invite newcomers, which might include the pastor’s wife, into our circle? Do I seek out people I’ve not met after the church service ends? Or do I stay in my bubble? Do I wait for them to come to me because I’m _________ (old, don’t walk well, grumpy, an introvert)? It is always so easy to find excuses, isn’t it?
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.”
Meeting together means more than just showing up for church! How can we encourage others if we don’t get to know them?
Taking It Further:
Do any of these thoughts ring true for you? Can you think of ways to change your behavior so you don’t have regrets like I do?