– Scripture: 

“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named you friends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father. “You didn’t choose me, remember; I chose you, and put you in the world to bear fruit, fruit that won’t spoil. As fruit bearers, whatever you ask the Father in relation to me, he gives you. “But remember the root command: Love one another.

                                 John 15:11–17 (MSG)

– Reflection:

                        The Vine and The Branches

God chose us for a purpose, and the specifics of that purpose will remain untold until we become part of the life He wants for us. When I first became a believer, I didn’t know what my role was supposed to be, so I naturally followed my instincts. Over time, the things I routinely did became more purposeful, motivating me to engage in them even more. 

I believe that the work we do outside of our careers, the everyday tasks that have no monetary reward, is the work God intends for us to do for one another. Think about it: when we participate in activities unrelated to earning money, we often feel the most connected to others. Whether it’s attending a practice or game as a coach, or teaching someone a skill they wouldn’t have learned otherwise, these moments illustrate what we are designed for. 

We should strive to engage in more of these connections. Connecting on a more human level is the meaningful work we should prioritize.

– Where do we go from here?

Take a moment today to connect with your community. Don’t wait—building human connections is essential for creating a stronger community. Connection is a powerful healer; if we prioritize these connections, we all have a better chance at thriving.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for designing us to need one another in this world. It is these connections that keep us strong and vigilant as we fulfill our responsibilities for the Kingdom. While there may be a few who seek to tear down, you have created far more builders than destroyers. Thank you, Father. Amen.