The events of 2020 have brought so many world-wide changes. For one, our conversations are full of words that were once only sporadically used. Virus, vaccine, and contagious were words from a cloudy doctor visit. But the word isolation didn’t need a pandemic to bring it to my mind. I had images of being the only foreigner walking through a market, of my friends walking single file up a steep winding path to their village, and my new teammate crying because our city had not one traditional thanksgiving food item. I am sure you can make your own additions.  

Isolation is not all bad. I’ve made many new friends wanting to help me as I shopped solo. My friends love their mountain top life. The co-worker eventually started new holiday traditions. But being or feeling far away, one-of-a-kind, or different can easily slip into loneliness, sadness, and selfishness; far from what our Father wants for us.  

Before we plan a move, let’s look at what is recorded for us in scripture. Jesus calls his church ‘the body of Christ.’ The body! We’re each a needed part! Some for hospitality. Some to be strong for the weak. Carry one another’s burdens. Meet together. Encourage one another. In twos or hundreds. No matter the location.  

Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, “A cord of three strands is not easily broken.” 

Yes, we are inspired by Moses parting the Red Sea and Joshua calling down the walls of Jericho. But don’t forget Daniel prayed with friends before interpreting the dream. Peter runs to tell the brothers of his miraculous escape from prison. Mary hurries to Elizabeth after her visit from an angel. Moses’ arms are held up during battle by his brother and a friend. Paul’s amazing writings on the doctrines of our faith fill the New Testament, but he also was encouraged by the brothers who traveled far to meet him in Rome. Many of his letters open with never ending thanks for the faith of others.  

Let’s help each other on the lonely days. Isolation or the Body of Christ?