Listen to today’s devo!

And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. (1 John 1:3)

People had many different responses when “stay-at-home” orders went into effect around the United States and the world during March 2020. For example, some enjoyed more time at home with their families, while others felt increasingly isolated and alone. All of us experienced losses during that time, however, and perhaps one of the greatest losses many of us experienced was the ability to gather in person with our church communities for worship, service, and fellowship.

The people to whom John was writing had experienced a loss of community as well, after a number of people had departed from the church over differing views about Jesus. That was likely why John started out his letter by expressing his desire “that you also may have fellowship with us” (v. 3), which John said would “make our joy complete” (v. 4). John wanted the church to know that, whatever the circumstances, they were never truly alone. They were—and we are—part of a global fellowship that is centered on God the Father and Jesus, his Son.

Even when we are prevented from being with one another, we can have fellowship, because God who joins us together is always with us. Our recent experiences have hopefully given us a renewed sense of joy and responsibility in meeting together with the other Christians God has placed in our lives through our local church fellowship.

—Kevin R. Scott

Embrace the fellowship with other believers found in Christ.