“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Gal 6:2)

By the time I moved to the big city last fall, I had several good friends who already lived here. To make new friends, I joined book clubs and a church. I attended writing meetings and got involved as a board member of the Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc. (OWFI). I even briefly tried online dating.

But making friends as an adult is hard. I wasn’t making lasting connections because I simply attended meetings and went home. The nights when I made small talk were a huge victory for me. As an introvert, small talk is my Achilles’ heel, and I struggle to open up to others.

About a month after my move, I volunteered at church. There, I interacted with people for a few hours each Sunday, and I began to connect with people. Because I wanted to get to know people better, I set up a dinner for those of us women who serve together even though I barely knew anyone at the time. Over the last few months, I have continued to arrange dinners for us. Through our time together both at church and outside of it, we have grown to know each other on a deeper level.

In January, I attempted to join two small groups through my church. Just before each group’s meeting, I lost my nerve and backed out. Then, I noticed a posting for a group facilitated by someone I knew from my previous work. While I didn’t know her well, I did recognize her name. I actually made it to a meeting, and I immediately felt a connection with the members of this group.

Finding community has made such a difference in my life. I have good friends nearby to give me a ride if my car breaks down, to walk with in the mornings, and to share the concerns that are on my mind. We all come from different backgrounds and have different experiences, but we share a love for Jesus and each other.

In the Bible, we find many examples of community. Jesus himself had a community of twelve close friends. In community, we can encourage each other and hold each other accountable: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Heb 10:24-25) By following Jesus’ example, we, too, can surround ourselves with those who encourage us, love us, and help us look outside of ourselves to help others.

Dear Jesus, thank you for a community of friends who love me in spite of my flaws. Help us to lift up and encourage each other and stay close to you. Amen.