As we near the end of the summer season, we should not only reflect on the actions of ourselves but of, and with, each other.

     Summer is the time of growth. God does not plant a Christian alone. In Acts 2:42, "They devoted themselves to . . . fellowship . . ." Spending time with each other, doing activities, is a way of growing. When christians spend time together, it's something God wants. As it says in Malachai 3:16, "Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard." Christians need each other; by friendships, bonds, and fellowships. As a result, we grow in faith and encourage one another. "Just as each of us has one body with many members, . . . so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us." Rom. 12: 4-6. This also leads to worship and praises together. Therefore, we "Rejoice with those who rejoice . . . and live in harmony with one another" Rom. 12:15-16.

     We not only have to spend time together, but also importantly, we have to know each other on a personal level. As we grow together personally, it creates honesty and trust in one another. Trust is extremely important in relationships. Each of us needs it before we confess our sins to each other. "Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective," says James 5:16. As a result we also, "Carry each other's burdens . . .," according to Gal. 6:2. As we share our tears and laughter with one another, it gives us strength by the comfort, care, and compassion that is provided by our fellow christians. As Christians, we are one body of Christ, and we must come together.

     We can't isolate ourselves from each other, because we need each other spiritually. Fellowship with one another and forgiveness of our sins are what binds us together as we walk in the light of Jesus. Our forgiveness and fellowship are inseparable. We, with each other, must also be inseparable.

     As we reflect on the past summer, which represents growth, we must remember that it is God that makes us grow, and it is God that causes us to grow together.

Member of the Church at
San Jose, CA