October 9

One in the Bond of Love


We are all one body, we have the same glorious future.

Ephesians 4:4 (NLT)


So now I am giving you a new commandment: love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.

John 13:34 (NLT)


The early morning sun blazes. Beaming through the air like a search light, it strikes the trees of fall forcing their full and vibrant color. Wisps of steam rise from the earth in tribute and God’s beautiful design sings to my soul once more.

It’s Saturday and as I begin to pray I remember this is the day I pray for my small group members. In the warm realization of these two gifts from God (creation and relationships) my heart melts. I love God and I deeply appreciate all he has given me—certainly this beautiful morning—but as I pray, I feel His intense love for Kris, Andy, Megan, Jeff, Katie, Chris, Jenn, Chris and Tara. I love these people and I wish I were with them now. They are such a joy; how I wish I could share this moment. Instead, I pray for their families, their marriages, their peace, faith and joy. My eyes well up as I think of Andy and Megan moving this year. It will be hard I know. My emotions reconfigure themselves into deeper understanding, and I realize the sign of a great group is the pain that comes when we say goodbye.

I wipe my eyes, look back to my colorful trees, and I see the connection. It’s like the cloud that just appeared, dimming the spotlight on God’s great gift. The trees are still there. Just a little less spectacular. Just waiting for another golden moment....


Father, thank You for the Body of Christ, for friends who care and for love that will never die. Amen.