I’ve just re-read the life story of Richard Wurmbrand. The torture he and his wife received in Romania is almost unimaginable. They suffered terrible physical torture as well as months and years of solitary confinement; they had long periods completely on their own.
We were made to be in community; we were not programmed to be alone. I often visit those who are nearly housebound. Where it is possible I encourage them to seek company. When we meet with others we can forget out our own aches, pains and problems. Our attention will be drawn to others. We can remember great times of past happiness. Together we can even make plans for the future.
Community is also a Biblical concept. God provided Adam with a soul-mate, Eve, (Genesis 2:18) so he wouldn’t be alone. Jesus chose twelve companions because even as the Son of God He didn’t want to live life alone. God established and loves the church, so we can have a church community and live a life of give and take.
We read in Ecclesaiastes 4:9 ‘Two are better than one.’ I love conversations I have with many people, they give me ideas and might even give me the solution to a problem I have. I had visited various shops looking for a certain item, my neighbour suggested yet anothershop, where I was successful.
Verse 12 of this chapter ‘a chord of three strands is not easily broken.’ When God is in the mix it is even better.