When was the last time you felt like your soul had been filled up by connecting with another person? We need each other and community so badly. Our hearts, minds, and bodies need proximity with others who can bring a nourishing hug, a listening ear, a challenge to live more authentically.

I felt like my cup was filled to the brim after a week of connections made during the Covenant’s Midwinter pastor’s conference in Chicago. It was one full week of shared meals, worshipping together, conversations and prayer over coffee, dialogues around the table at workshops, standing in solidarity alongside our latino brothers and sisters, late night soul sharing with friends. I didn’t get much sleep. Julio did as he was able to retreat into his introverted space each night 🙂 Me, I soaked up every minute. And I felt lifted in mind and spirit. God met me through people – old friends, new colleagues, mutual friends, etc. From a gala celebrating 80 years of Covenant World Relief and Development (including an art gallery/auction, to a Serve Globally Luncheon, we were reminded of the good work that is happening in the world. I was encouraged and nourished. I didn’t have a voice by the end of the week, but it was worth it. And I did have some time to wander around downtown Chicago, which is also always fun and meaningful. 

We need each other. In these days, which often feel so heavy and where many are feeling lonely, may we show up for one another. Henri Nouwen writes, “All human relationships, be they between parents and children, husbands and wives, lovers and friends, or between members of a community, are meant to be signs of God’s love for humanity as a whole and each person in particular.” (Here and Now) May our relationships point to God’s love.