Connect
by Michele Husfelt on February 7, 2022
Perusing Facebook, I happened upon a post from a young woman new to the area. Due with her first child soon and not having met any friends yet, she was inviting anyone who could come to a baby shower she was going to host for herself. While I was inspired by her courage, I was saddened at the thought of how many other women are lonely and craving connection, but not brave enough to reach out.
While still mulling her post around in my mind, I turned on the TV to see an interesting conversation with a scientist working in the field of artificial intelligence, specifically designing apps that can replace human relationships. I was struck by the thought that people believe they can replace human interaction with robots designed to show emotion, feelings, and responses and replace actual people and relationships.
At our recent NWN staff planning day, as we talked about our vision for the year and what God was bringing to our attention the word connect seemed to be a common thread and before long, we agreed that connect might be a word for our Network this year. Connection is a basic human need that’s value is often underestimated and misunderstood. Community is where we find connection.
From before creation, God was in community. Together with Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Triune community spoke the world into existence. In Genesis 1:26 God said, “‘Let us make people in our image, to be like ourselves.’” From the very beginning, God designed us to do life with others. We were never made to walk our faith journey apart from community. In fact, Bob Mulholland, in his book Invitation to a Journey, points out that “holistic spirituality, the process of being formed in the image of Christ, takes place in the midst of our relationship with others, not apart from them.” This is quite the opposite of what we often think, that walking out of our faith is something private that happens only between ourselves and God.
“Whether consciously or not, people desire connection. But it takes time and intentionality.”
Whether consciously or not, people desire connection. But it takes time and intentionality. In a world (and geographic area) where connecting with others can be wrought with obstacles, we must be deliberate to find and create opportunities to connect with each other.
Perhaps you might consider forming your own community (FYOC). In what ways can you gather in community or invite others to belong? Are you working from home and can gather a few friends who do likewise to meet for lunch once a week, either virtually or in person? Perhaps you’re a crafter and can host a monthly get-together at your house or church with other crafters. Some craft groups have a designated project each time they meet while others might work on individual crafts as they enjoy each other’s company. Do you jog, bike, or exercise and find it more pleasurable to sweat with a few sisters? Book clubs are a great way to connect with women in your neighborhood or church. One friend shared her excitement being in a cookbook club, where they meet monthly for dinner, and everyone brings a dish they’ve chosen from one particular cookbook.
Chances are that any interests you have can be used to invite friends and neighbors into a small group for community and connection. Check out these and other ideas on our group’s page and let us know how you’re connecting in community.
