Lone Ranger and Tonto

That's code for fellowship. I find it interesting that the Lone Ranger really wasn't that lone. He had Tonto. This weekend has reminded me of the power of fellowship. We were not meant to do this Christian life alone. Beyond that, there is a powerful force as we experience the love of Christian friendship through fellowship. The brotherhood of Christ provides a connection that mere worldly friendship can't really approach. Sunday we had the Hyssongs come to sing at the church. I only see them once a year and so don't really know them all that well. Our two families had supper together and we had a wonderful time of intimate fellowship and sharing that gave us all a real boost. It was a great evening. I also recently reconnected with an old friend from college on Facebook. Through just some short messages back and forth, we have been able to share and encourage one another in powerful ways. When we hold ourselves aloof. When we protect rather than share our private lives and personal struggles, we deny ourselves this powerful bond that comes from connecting in a deep and personal way with others. It is unfortunate that many Christians, and especially Christian workers like pastors, don't learn this lesson and end up lonely, discouraged, and sometimes in trouble. The power of fellowship cannot be understated. It is a clear Biblical teaching and one that we would do well to remember. Let us not forsake coming together as is the habit of some, but instead encourage one another, especially as we see the end getting closer. Even the Lone Ranger had Tonto.[video:youtube:W0jSiErvnDI]