Why Togetherness Feels So Foreign Today
We live in an age where independence is celebrated, often to the detriment of community. In a culture that values self-reliance, the idea of true togetherness can feel distant—even uncomfortable. But there’s something timeless and transformative about real community. The Bible highlights this, and Jesus Himself prayed that His followers would “be one as we are one” (John 17:21, NLT), emphasizing that unity isn’t just a nice sentiment; it’s part of God’s design for humanity.
A Strange Lesson from the History of Potatoes
To illustrate, let’s dive into an unexpected story from history. When potatoes were introduced to Europe in the 15th century, they were met with suspicion and even fear. In France, for example, potatoes were associated with leprosy because of their lumpy, unusual appearance. Society hesitated to accept this new food, but one clever Frenchman planted an entire field of potatoes, guarded it during the day, and left it unguarded at night. Peasants, curious about this “valuable” crop, would sneak in and steal potatoes, eventually integrating them into French cuisine.
This story mirrors our discomfort with community today. Just as the potato was once misunderstood, we can undervalue community, thinking independence is more desirable. Yet, just as the potato ultimately became a staple, meaningful relationships and togetherness can profoundly enrich our lives.
God’s Design: Created for Connection
The Bible underscores this idea of connection from the very beginning. In Genesis, God declared, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18, NLT). This statement came before the introduction of sin into the world, highlighting that humans were created for connection.
Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21 goes even deeper, reflecting the unity within the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—as a model for human relationships. Unity among believers serves as a living testimony of God’s nature to the world.
Following Jesus Together
When Jesus began His ministry, He called a group of people to follow Him together. Mark 1:16-20 (NLT) recounts the moment Jesus called Simon, Andrew, James, and John not individually, but as a group. He didn’t design discipleship to be a solo mission. Instead, He invited them to grow, serve, and learn as a community.
Imagine trying to navigate a dense, unfamiliar forest alone. The journey is intimidating and often overwhelming. But with a group, there’s direction, support, and shared wisdom. Following Jesus was never meant to be an isolated endeavor; it’s a shared journey that strengthens and encourages each person along the way.
Embracing the Challenges of Community
Community is powerful, but it’s not always easy. Jesus’ disciples argued, doubted, and struggled, yet they stayed together. This reveals an important truth: true community will expose imperfections, but it will also reveal beauty. As Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NLT) reminds us, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.”
In our faith journeys, we may encounter frustrations, misunderstandings, and conflicts within the community. But these experiences are opportunities for growth, helping us learn patience, forgiveness, and humility.
Supporting Each Other in Love
Sometimes, support isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about simply being present. Take a look at this video of a turtle on its back, struggling and flapping around helplessly. Rather than judge or ignore it, other turtles come close, instinctively offering their presence, even if they don’t know exactly how to help. It’s a reminder that just showing up for others can make a difference.
Below is a link to a short video that can be used as an illustration. You can ask your church to pay attention as they watch and then share with you what they see. It can be a powerful discovery.
Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to “motivate one another to acts of love and good works, and not neglect meeting together.” Just as those turtles instinctively gathered, we’re called to notice when someone is struggling and to stand by them, reminding them they’re not alone.
Navigating Doubt Together
In community, we find both strength and space to wrestle with questions. Doubt can be part of the faith journey, and it’s often during these challenging times that we most need others. Consider how the other disciples responded to Thomas when he doubted the resurrection. They didn’t cast him out; instead, they allowed him to work through his doubts in their presence.
The Bible encourages us in Jude 1:22 to “show mercy to those whose faith is wavering.” Real community doesn’t shy away from questions or struggles; instead, it creates a safe space where people can work through their doubts and find encouragement.
From Isolation to Inclusion
In Psalm 68:5-6, we read that God “places the lonely in families.” The church is meant to be a family for those who feel disconnected or left out. There’s a beautiful story by Max Lucado that illustrates this: a little lamb named Joshua, who feels left out because he’s different. But through unexpected circumstances, Joshua ends up keeping the newborn Jesus warm, realizing that even he, with all his limitations, has a special place in God’s plan.
In today’s world, it’s easy to feel like we don’t belong. But God calls us to reach out to those who may feel overlooked, extending friendship and inclusion. Maybe this week, consider reaching out to someone who might be feeling isolated. A simple act of kindness can go a long way.
The Power of Gathering
The Bible speaks to the importance of gathering in Hebrews 10:24-26, encouraging us not to forsake meeting together. Our presence matters—not just for ourselves, but for the encouragement it brings to others. When you show up, you’re offering support, whether you realize it or not.
Gathering as a community is about more than just numbers; it’s about the relationships we build and the strength we find in one another.
Breaking Bread Together
Sharing meals is one of the most basic yet profound ways to build relationships. Jesus frequently ministered over meals, knowing that gathering around food creates space for connection and conversation. In Luke 24, we see this illustrated when the disciples on the road to Emmaus finally recognize Jesus while breaking bread.
There’s something sacred about inviting others to our table. Meals foster connection and allow us to recognize the presence of Jesus in our shared experiences.
Moving from Isolation to Community
In a world that often glorifies independence, choosing togetherness is a countercultural act. But Jesus calls us to this shared life of faith, reminding us that we’re not meant to go it alone. Community isn’t perfect, but it’s powerful. It gives us a place to grow, to doubt, to encourage, and to be encouraged.
This week, think about how you can embody this sense of togetherness in your own life. Who might need your presence? Who could benefit from a small act of kindness? Let’s embrace the call to follow Jesus together, remembering that “two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9).
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