Jimbo's Jots

I gather either in person or on a zoom call with a staff of other therapists at Samaritan Counseling Center once a week. We talk about cases that are presented and offer each other insight. We also use this time to check in on each other along the way.

I meet, if I can, once a month with a group of local youth pastors in my area. We discuss ministry issues related to our different churches that are represented. We look for ways to encourage each other.

I connect with other church members once a week on a Sunday or Wednesday. We reconnect from the week. We gather in worship and teaching. We check on each other, especially if one of our number is going through a difficult time or they are experiencing some joys.

In 1971, Motown Records released a song by a newer group, Jackson 5, called I’ll Be There. Briefly, here are some of the lyrics . . .

“You and I must make a pact, we must bring salvation back, Where there is love, I’ll be there.

I’ll reach out my hand to you, I’ll have faith in all you do, Just call my name and I’ll be there.”

There’s something to be said about connecting and gathering. The times I am able to meet with people and share and grow are times that I find some fulfillment. I hope there are moments in which you and I have had an encounter that you have walked away and found fulfillment.

I’m also reminded of the wisdom shared by the Wise King in Ecclesiastes:

“Two are better than one,
    because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down,
    one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
    and has no one to help them up.
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
    But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
    two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (4:9-12)

I love the connections that I have with people. I love the sharing of thoughts and ideas. I love the growth I gain from the engagement. And I promise to you, I will reach out my hand to you and I will be there.

Be blessed in connecting! Be a blessing to others in connecting!