The same Jesus that we are celebrating this season was a perfect example of community, communion and good food. When there was no food, He made multiplied some and ensured there were leftovers! Though He separated Himself to pray, often Jesus dined with people and hanged around with people. Jesus seemed to have crossed boundaries and even hanged out with those others deemed outside their circles. When His family mocked Him, Jesus still found people to be around with. Community and Communion were recurrent themes of Jesus.
The fullness of God though cannot be experienced alone. Some aspects of it requires community, fellowshipping with one another and enjoying each other’s company. I’m beginning to experience the fullness of this freedom in Christ. So far, I am learning that this freedom extends beyond the freedom of being saved, delivered and set free; that it is the freedom of just being you. Coming to the fullness of the identity God created us to be.
When we have come to the fullness of this identity, reaching out and becoming a part of a community becomes easy. It is from here too that we enjoy the community of fellow believers, friends and family. This reminds me of the Israelites after Solomon built the temple (1 Kings 8:65-66) and of King David, when the Ark of the Lord was returned to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6). These occasions were followed by days of feasting and celebrations. How much more now that Christ has set us free and reconciled us to God! The holiday season can be lonesome for others; introverts like myself would rather just be left alone!
But this Christmas and holiday season, I encourage you to “come out” and join in communion, community and good food. The holidays should not be the only time that brings the best out of us, but please don’t stay home alone, venture out, enjoy the festivities, go watch the Christmas lights, excite the little child in you, make fun of yourself, be silly responsibly!
This Joy to the world, came over 2000 years ago, for your freedom and that you may enjoy the fullness of life with others. So, Come On, enjoy sweet fellowship and communion with others this week and throughout the holiday season.
