| I read a note from a single friend who is relocating for a new job this summer. He briefly mentioned how disruptive it is to miss friends, acquaintances, and the familiar interactions with people that have become so important to his life. His reflection reminded me how we all desire to be known and loved.
That desire and basic need is part of the reason we work to keep providing opportunities for people to connect and build relationships with each other. All people—single or married, in families or living alone—need other people. In August, wherever you are in life right now, you will have a chance to join a group and start building friendships with others.
Right now, I want to encourage couples who want to work on their marriage relationship to consider a group designed to do just that. Marriage gives us an opportunity to know (and be known) and to love (and receive love) in the most intimate of relationships. The vulnerability to be fully known and the commitment to love without condition requires effort, intentional work, and a little bit of risk. If you would like some support and guidance in doing the work of marriage, then visit a Re|engage preview on either Tuesday, August 3 or 10 at 6:30pm. You can learn more and sign up here.
When considering the marriage relationship, Tim Keller wrote, “When over the years someone has seen you at your worst and knows all your strengths and flaws, yet commits him- or herself to you wholly, it is a consummate experience. To be loved but not known is comforting but superficial. To be known and not loved is our greatest fear. But to be fully known and truly loved is, well, a lot like being loved by God.” If you are married, you have an opportunity to show your spouse what it feels like to receive God’s love. Consider a Re|engage group to keep building that kind of love.
Let’s learn to love one another well,
Titus |
