Kristen Grossman Prose

“For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you— that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” Romans 1:11-12

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Face masks, plexiglass partitions, and six-foot spacing have become regular fixtures in our lives. Whether we rail against them or accept them as bothersome-yet-necessary health precautions, we all suffer from a loss of contact and community as we navigate a life that looks different from what we have previously known.

Whether or not you are a student or have one in your home, fall is often a season for fresh starts. As summer draws to a close, we turn our minds from a relaxed summer day mentality and begin our fall routines. Many clubs and groups that take summer breaks gear back up. Even our meal-planning mindset may shift from the backyard grill to the crockpot as we begin dreaming of comforting and warming soups and stews.

Enduring a global pandemic for the past six months has left many of us feeling alone, isolated, and fearful. As humans, we were not designed to make our journey through life in solitude. From the very beginning, our Creator recognized our need for companionship. “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.’” (Genesis 2:18 NIV)

Furthermore, our loving God created us with amazing brains and a remarkable capacity to imagine, discover, and invent. Therefore, we are blessed to live in a time where technology allows us to make connections with one another despite the ongoing need for caution when gathering with others. If you are feeling isolated and alone, now, more than ever, it is crucial to seek creative ways to connect, build relationships, and find fellowship with other believers. “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV)

Here are three ideas for cultivating community during a season of disconnection.

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1. Check Out Your Church Website

Many churches kick off a new season of Bible studies and small groups in the fall. Depending on your area’s health guidelines, your church may offer small groups that meet outdoors or in small groups indoors. Many churches also provide Bible study and small group opportunities that meet online. While meeting over Zoom isn’t the same as meeting in person, it allows a refreshing chance to talk, share, and fellowship with other humans. 

Furthermore, it helps to be open to experiencing fellowship with those in different life seasons from yours. There is much to be learned from those who are further along in life’s journey than we are. Furthermore, there is much joy in passing on our knowledge and support to those coming behind us. “One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.” (Psalm 145:4 ESV)

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2. Seek Out Others in Your Same Season

While we are all living through a new season of life touched by Covid-19, everyday life still carries on with its usual trials, transitions, and challenges. Again, these ordeals are not meant to be faced alone. Reaching out to those who face similar struggles can provide encouragement and support to them and you.

Shortly before the pandemic hit, I was blessed to talk with an older woman whose courage in reaching out was an inspiration to me. After a period of grief over the loss of her husband, she found herself isolated and alone. However, she didn’t just wait around expecting others to befriend her. Instead, she posted an invitation on her Nextdoor chat group asking if other women in her season of life would be interested in meeting for coffee. The response was overwhelming, and she made several close and deep friendships through her willingness to take that first step.

If you are in a time of transition, be it facing an empty nest, dealing with a job loss, retiring from your job, or moving across the country, I would encourage you to seek others dealing with similar life changes. Whether you meet for a socially distanced walk, enjoy coffee at an outdoor café, or connect over video calls, the benefit of human interaction and support is a God-given gift. “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV)

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3. Explore Service Opportunities

I’ve found that when I am feeling low, the best path to a renewed sense of purpose and joy is found in helping others. If you are able, look into volunteer opportunities that will allow you to serve others. Serving can be as simple as calling up a lonely neighbor or offering to pick up groceries for someone who can’t get out of the house. Volunteering can also involve more significant commitment, such as donating blood, helping with food distribution, or tutoring underserved students. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40 NIV) There is something about serving others that restores our sense of community and reminds us we have a place in this world.

This fall, schools, clubs, community organizations, and church groups are beginning new. They may look different from previous years, but the tenacity of the human spirit means we continue striving to make connections with those around us. If you are feeling alone or adrift, I encourage you to take steps to cultivate your sense of community, belonging, and relationship.

Dear Lord, Thank You that we are never truly alone. Please help us form relationships with those around us to provide mutual encouragement and support through whatever season we are in. Amen.