I could list a number of negative factors that have existed since COVID-19 reared its ugly head, but one of the things that is especially concerning me lately is isolation. It seems as though the introverts have decided that staying home and not seeing anyone is the life so they no longer have the time or desire to get together with others who need encouragement. And they don’t see how not being around people has affected them negatively as well. I understand the desire to stay home and live in my own little world, but there is a difference between being an introvert and being self-centered. I believe the latter is coming into play way too often these days.

If you are in fragile health to where it’s necessary to stay away from others in order to keep from getting sick, this is not for you. We all need to use wisdom. But for those who are able-bodied and have time, you may be depriving someone of the encouragement that you could give if you weren’t so devoted to your routine. Do you seriously want the last words your friend hears from you to be, “Sorry, I’m too busy”?

I believe that too many have bought the idea that, as long as you have Jesus, you don’t need friends and family. I beg to differ. God created us for relationship. First and foremost with Him, yes. But that is not to be exclusive of human relationships. How does iron sharpen iron if iron never gets together with iron? How do we exhort and encourage each other if we never talk to each other? It doesn’t happen.

Here in Michigan, there are still a lot of restrictions which make getting together with a Sister difficult but not impossible. I expect to be stretched a bit as I reach out to others in order to get to know them better. I’m also braced that some will turn me down, not wanting to step out of their comfort zone. But I pray to find those who need an uplift and trust that I can be a representation of Jesus to those who accept my invitation. I challenge you to do the same. If you only get together with one person each month, that is only twelve days out of the year that you will need to change your routine and reach out to others. And who knows? Maybe some wonderful, encouraging friendships will develop.