I went mountain climbing the other day and met up with some energetic students. 

When I thought I could not possibly go on, they shouted words of encouragement: ‘You can do it!’ ‘This is nothing. You’ve made it this far; the worst is over.’ At times, they burst into song to boost morale. Together, we made it all the way.

This experience reminds me of our Christian walk. Sometimes the battle is too fierce, and we feel we can’t go on. We don’t have the strength even to pray. 

In such times, we need other people to support, encourage and admonish us in love. Through Christian fellowship, we have the strength to hold on to God’s sure promises and to continue. Being accountable to one another keeps us on track.

Some people say that they need not go to church anymore because they listen to sermons on TV or on the internet. 

This practice is no substitute for Christian fellowship. The TV won’t comfort us through hard times, rejoice in our blessings or keep us accountable. Our brothers and sisters in Christ will.

Prayer: Thank you, dear God, for the fellowship of believers. Teach us to cherish it and to play our roles in the community of faith. Amen