I respect the writings of Alan Knox quite a bit. Some of his stuff gets me pondering the difference between what I’ve experienced in church life and what scripture points to. I don’t go on a rant and rave against expressions of church, I reflect on what was and consider what can be in the light of what scripture states.
I just read the title of a recent entry via a tweet looking at what I think when I hear the word ‘fellowship’. Rather than comment on his fine blog, I just thought I’d share me thoughts here. I hope he doesn’t mind. What follows is not doctrinally approved, church sanctioned and thoroughly scriptural thoughts on fellowship, so if you are looking for references to numerous texts, you’ll have to look elsewhere. The question was on thoughts and these are me thoughts.
When I think of fellowship … I think of a long table with food and drink scatttered around and people of all ages seated around the table getting their plates full of the lovely stuff on offer. That would of course include double chocolate cake and a stack of cherry bakewell tarts! Yet as rich and delicious as the menu is, even more delightful is the animated faces of the people engaging with each other on the issues of life. Whether it is the old man with his arm round a younger man in consolation, or two girls giggling together at something trivial the atmosphere is filled with loving each other’s company.
When I think of fellowship … I think of a group of men seated in a living room on the sofas, recliners, armchairs and hard back chairs. One or two have their Bibles open, more importantly they are all engaged in the conversation on something that matters to them. Practical advice, moving experiences, good banter, hearty laughter, heavy silence, honesty, confession, vulnerability, transparency and a determination to earnestly follow Jesus in all life are hallmarks of the conversation.
When I think of fellowship … I think of two women who run a coffee shop for their community. Every mug of coffee is a chance for some heart weary soul to sit and chill and share the issues of the day or their lives free from feeling condemned or under any pressure to live up to the standards of others. As the two women wash up afterwards (no need for a dishwasher) helpfully supported by some teenage volunteers they sing spiritual songs and high-five each other after a good recollection. This image of fellowship goes from the serving to the songs to the washing up.
When I think of fellowship I think of people being together. Really being. Perhaps there is a particularly Christian definition of fellowship. I know not so long ago I’d be wary of Christians talking about it as it didn’t amount to much more than socialising. I am not as dogmatic now, but I believe there is something about fellowship that is richer and deeper whilst being simpler than some have offered.
When I think of fellowship, I thank God for broadening my horizons through experience to its different expressions. I also thank God for the expressions I have yet to experience, each of which will fill me with joy as I see others filled with the same as we realise who is with us. Also at the hint at eternity that it brings.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
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