For all the connectedness we have, our society is more isolated than ever.
We sit behind keyboards and phones, “connecting” with others over the internet but only seeing what people want us to see. Algorithms make sure we are fed content we like and enjoy, creating echo chambers of agreement and anyone who disagrees isn’t worth keeping up with. We have people making emotional connections to an AI program! And we wonder at the state of things.
Throughout the New Testament we have what’s often referred to as the one another statements. These teach us about an important aspect of our Christian life: how we treat others. But it goes deeper than “Love your neighbor” because before we can truly love and care for those around us, we have to BE with them. We have to do things with them, live life, enjoy the ups and downs and still be friends. It’s not easy or glamourous but being in community is so important.
In the one another verses, we find statements like, “Forgive one another, bear one another’s burdens, encourage one another, exhort one another, comfort one another,” and I could go on. These are specific and go far beyond “love one another” to the daily grind of living life together.
In order to comfort others, we need to know them well enough to know when they need to be comforted. If there’s a health crisis, a family need, a sudden tragedy. Offering comfort can come through texts and cards, but it needs the personal touch of being in each other’s lives.
The one another statements are interesting because there are some verses that tell us what not to do. “Do not grumble against one another, do not speak evil against one another, do not provoke one another, do not lie to one another,” etc. These verses remind us that thinking of others isn’t always about doing something; sometimes it’s about not doing what our sinful nature wants us to.
There is a vulnerability in living these things with others. Do you have friends close enough that you feel like you can share your burdens? Do you forgive and work through differences?
These biblical statements and principles are reminders that this life isn’t about us, and the greatest things we do aren’t for ourselves. We are to live in community and grow and serve each other.
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