“Let us not give up the habit of meeting together, as some are doing. Instead, let us encourage one another all the more, since you see that the Day of the Lord is coming nearer.”—Hebrews 10:25 (GNT)

One week at the baby hat ministry group, I took a photo of everyone working on their hats. There were 11 of us! However, what struck me the most was how every lady there was interacting with each other. While others around us were absorbed on their phones or laptops, we were all using our hands to create baby hats and having true fellowship with each other. We are sharing life together. That is truly missing in our society today. Electronic devices paired with ear buds have evolved us into an impersonal society. Meeting in person and engaging with others is no longer the norm.

Despite background, education, and other interests, we do have two things in common. We love Jesus and we love others. The common thread that has woven us together is being able to knit, use a loom or crochet baby hats to donate to local organizations. What started out as small has grown. Because the needs for baby hats is not as great, some have started making baby blankets as well. Another woman has been making hats, ear warmers and scarves for the homeless to donate in the fall. Others have been inspired to join her. There is power in community.

What I love about our group is that we aren’t doing this for any type of recognition. God rewards those that are faithful behind the scenes. For me the rewards have been the women I have met through this ministry. We have gone from being called Baby Hat Ministry to Knit, Pray, Crochet. In fact, our group has grown so much, we are no longer able to meet in the sweet little coffee shop that we have called home every week for nearly 2 years. This week, we start meeting at a new location. Praying it all fall in place and be a good fit for us.

Our Christian friendships are a gift God gave us to nurture. While texting or emailing someone is a way to keep in touch, it can’t take the place of actually talking to someone over the phone or in person. We must tend to our relationships and not neglect them. We all need trusted voices to lean into to receive truth. We should not neglect meeting with other believers on a regular basis. Staying connected with a ministry or small group keeps us from drifting and staying anchored in God’s purpose for us in serving others.

Some weeks there are only 3-4 of us. No matter the number, where we gather in His name, Jesus is present. Together, we are the church. We all need purpose and people in our lives. The people we spend time with have an impact on us. The more I am around people with a servant heart, the more I want to serve. Who is your tribe? Do you have a group you meet with on a regular basis that encourage you to live for Jesus? If not, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and try to find one.

Father God,

Forgive me when I let a busyness keep me from nurturing my Christian friendships. Clear my schedule to make the needed time to feed my soul through these relationships. Thank You for the gift of community. You can bring the most unlikely group of people together and make something beautiful. I lift those up to You who are seeking a gospel centered group to be led to one. Give them courage to step outside of their comfort zone to join others in serving You. It is in the name of Jesus, that I pray these things. Amen.

 September Verse

This verse is still on my screen saver. I need it as a reminder as I step out in faith for my YouTube channel, Knit, Pray, Crochet.

“Keep alert. Be firm in your faith. Stay brave and strong.”—1 Corinthans 16:13 (CEV)

If you are knitting or crocheting gifts to give away, please make sure you tweet @KnitPrayShare or share your projects on the Knit, Pray, Share Facebook page or Instagram using the hashtag #KnitPrayShare. Be sure to attach a tag to whatever gift you make.