COMPANIONS IN CHRIST

The wedding of Ann and Jeff many years ago was beautiful and meaningful. This was the first time I really heard this “two are better than one” scripture. How perfectly it describes the relationship needed within a marriage. More can be accomplished by two working together, than individuals alone, especially when the Lord is the third strand in that cord so tightly wound together.

There have been many times when Dave or I have needed to lean against one another for strength. When my mom died unexpectedly, Dave immediately handled many details while shock and grief left me numb. Both our faith and his strength were needed for me to process that grief.

God continually sends other people into our lives to enhance our spiritual growth and be the support we need. Our eyes and hearts simply need to be open to receive the gift of their presence and insight.

Small group study and group prayer have been part of my life for more than 15 years. Studies have focused on scripture, books and topics of interest as the composition of the group has changed slightly from year to year. In addition to the blessings of spiritual growth through our study, we have been blessed as companions in our times of difficulty.

It has made a profound difference that we were there for one another through times of transition, relocation, death, illness, pain, anger, difficult choices, examining boundaries, parenting challenges, differing opinions with decisions of the church and the complications of divorce. We have been strengthened because experiences were shared, and we were encouraged to act, to stretch out in faith, to model Christian behavior, to forgive, not to judge.

It is a blessing to find a group of people who will companion you in building a closer relationship with God as you share the joys and complexities of life. The work of the Holy Spirit is evident in the fabric of each person’s life.

— Carol Yoho

Courtesy of The Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist