Before there was video conferencing, social networking, telephones, and even postal mail, people in the early church found ways to connect, communicate, and care for each other. The Philippians sent Epaphroditus to care for Paul's needs, and Paul was sending Timothy to care for them. Although difficult (Epaphroditus almost died in his efforts to care for Paul), each word and deed were carefully crafted and sent with love.

Although we are "connected" in so many ways today, many still feel so lonely and alienated. In this age, when it is so easy to send an e-mail or text, we may lose the heart of genuine connection and intimacy that really matter in our lives. It is in our God-given nature to be loved and to belong to God and to each other. Without this, we don't function as we should. We need God's love that reached down to us first-then we can also reach out to others with genuine and sacrificial love. A wide open-hearted love that can embrace others with affection and compassion.


Application: Lord, I am so lonely and feel so distant. I know that you came down to be with me and even give your life for me. Teach me how to love others as you loved me. Help me to show genuine concern for those in need and create meaningful relationships with those around me.
One Word: Show genuine concern to others