One Another

Our Bible study girls
Back row L-R: Paige, Lauren, Gracie, Nicole, Elizabeth, Nicole
Front row L-R: Audrey, Brooke, Marissa
(not pictures: Lori, Emily, Serra)

"Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brothers and sisters, fervently love one another from the heart." (1 Peter 1:22)

At last night's final small group meeting for the spring, our thoughtful and precious Bible study girls gave the leaders pretty, miniature, cactus rock gardens as a thank you for helping them grow.

Like an oreo cookie, sandwiched in-between two delicious commands of God [Older women train the younger women (Titus 2:4) and don't neglect meeting together (Heb. 10:25)] sits the delectable, mouthwatering creamy middle of intertwined hearts, souls, and spirits: Christian fellowship.

The Greeks called it "koinonia," a fellowship and sweet communion beautifully painted across the canvas of the New Testament's "one another" passages:

"Be devoted to one another in love" (Romans 12:10).

"Live in harmony with one another" (Romans 12:16).

"Serve one another in love" (Gal. 5:13).

"Be kind and compassionate to one another" (Eph. 4:32).

"Encourage one another" (1 Thess 5:11). 

"Spur one another on toward love and good deeds" (Heb. 10:24).

"Fervently love one another" (1 Peter 1:22).

To the 14 beautiful ladies (the 12 young'uns and 2 dear "older" friends) that gathered around my kitchen table over the past twelve weeks -

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. 

May your roots grow down deep into Jesus and your lives be built on Him. 

May your faith grow strong in the truth you were taught, and may you overflow with thankfulness.

May you be filled with the Holy Spirit and complete your God-assigned work for His glory.

May you love the Lord, obey His voice, and hold fast to Him all the days of your dear lives.

And may the Lord watch between thee and me, while we are absent one from another.

I fervently love you all from my heart,

Jill