“Do we need to be here?”I posed that question at TheHighCalling.org (THC) today. It originated with Simple Country Girl, actually. She was kind of thinking out loud in the comments last week, wondering if she “needs” to be in cyberspace, or if flesh-and-blood relationships are the ones we really need to invest in.But we read an amazing story by Brock Henning, describing how he met one of my THC colleagues (and friends) David Rupert. We included it in the THC post or you can read it at Brock’s blog.Online or offline, people’s lives intertwine.And amazing things can happen.For example, I’ve already told the story of how I met Charity through THC but then met her in person, as well. Now we connect in all kinds of ways! Our family had the privilege of attending her church to hear her read an Advent devotional and light the first candle during the service.But I’ve also followed along with her Advent journey at her blog, where I enjoy her reflections and stories.Do I need to be at her blog? I guess not, but I believe my life is richer—and I think I know her better—for joining her there. She and I deepen our friendship both on- and off-line.This evening, our family sat around the table after dinner and lit the Advent candles. As we chatted, we discussed several topics. Then we quietly watched the flames sway.I kept thinking of Jennifer Dukes Lee’s THC post this morning that chronicled her Christmas mishaps. And then there are Michelle DeRusha’s Advent posts.Finally, I couldn’t contain myself. I summarized Jennifer’s snow-tumble and credit-card-flush and then described Michelle’s son’s unexpected reference to dead raccoons.Then I told them how different everyone’s lives are, and how fun it is to hear about it. The Voskamp children, for example, while normal and energetic kids, seem to make unusually thoughtful, meaningful—even holy—observations.My daughter pointed to Caleb’s wreath. “They are holy,” she joked, poking her finger into one of the holes drilled into the wood. “Get it? They’re hole-y.”My son started giggling, repeating “dead raccoons!” over and over and marveling at his sister’s play on words.Then he leaned forward and said, “I think we’re somewhere in the middle. Sometimes we say silly stuff, sometimes we say, you know, interesting stuff.”“That’s probably about right,” I said.I continued, “I’m telling you about these friends because it’s been so fun to read and share their stories online. Now I’m sitting here sharing them with you in person. I love that everything connects and overlaps.”We finished up by going around the table, each taking a turn praying. My 15-year-old daughter thanked the Lord that we have both times of laughter and times when we are more thoughtful.This evening, I felt deeply connected to my family, pleased that my kids felt comfortable just being themselves, “in the middle.”But I also felt connected to everyone who is practicing Christmas and observing Advent this week.During Advent—and all year long—we need to share our stories and encourage one another in this walk of faith. We need to laugh and learn and spur one another on toward love and good deeds.We need to be here, because we need each other.
They do overlap…and it makes me marvel at God’s handiwork…and He is working in us and through us….and has every hair on every head numbered…I can just keep my checkbook balanced!
God’s handiwork in your life, my life, your hair, my hair… 🙂 He holds all things together, and weaves them together, while He’s at it.
This is so very sweet, Ann. I’ve been enjoying sharing Advent with you and Charity and Jennifer and Ann V. and Michelle…what a blessed life it is! Wishing you a most holy (not the gaping kind) Christmas and a blessed New Year. So thankful our good Lord has brought us alongside one another in this life journey.
Yes, Advent was all the sweeter with the sharing. 🙂
Dear Ann,
How true. We need to be there for each other. Your comment on my post about Carol’s passing was moving and meant so much to me. Knowing that you and others from THC and online friendships have held us up in prayer and supported us through their comments has made a difference.
Your light has touched our lives.
A Blessed Advent and Christmas as we close in on our celebrations.
Janis
You have touched me, as well, Janis. May this year be one of joy and growth for us all!
Sisters and brothers on line! I have never met any of my blogger friends in person, but it is wonderful to be able to draw comfort, encouragement, and share the pain and also share the joy of so many. My prayer for 2011 is that each blogger will touch more lives, and that Jesus will be made more real to readers as the words and stories go out to bless and minister.
Beautiful thoughts, Hazel, and a beautiful prayer! Amen!