Saturday, September 18, 2021

Blessing in Community


 

 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him who is alone when he falls, and doesn’t have another to lift him up. 11 Again, if two lie together, then they have warmth; but how can one keep warm alone? 12 If a man prevails against one who is alone, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (WEB)

 

Like beacons of light my blooming orchids burst forth with color. They hung on a wooden tower and all pointed outward with clusters of blooms on long stems. 

 

            Each plant produced a unique color and design: large white with yellow centers, rich velvet like mauve, medium sized beige striped with violet, and tiny purple touched by white.  

 

            Up close, I examined and was amazed at the intricate design of every variety. The flowers on each stem were exactly the same but different from the other plants even though they were all the same species.  

 

            Once a week, I water them and occasionally add fertilizer. From their stand on the porch, they receive morning sunshine and shade from intense afternoon light. Even though I provide favorable growing conditions, nothing I do can make them grow. Only God does that. He created every one and determines its growth.  

 

            The gorgeous flowers bloom once a year but they last for two to three months. Although every one is lovely alone, the collection of flowers produced a splendid arrangement. 

 

            In community, we also flourish and produce more than we can as individuals. During isolation, we learned how important family members, Bible study groups, neighbors, friends, work colleagues and others contribute to our wellbeing.

            In community we form bonds which help us grow, flourish and serve. Together we form a beautiful collage.

 

Father, what a blessing we have when we join together. Thank you for the special gifts of community. Amen

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