Strangers no more

"And when you open it's mouth, you will find a Shekel".
Matthew 17:27.

In the cupboard, are various biscuits that are there for particular guests (and the same is true of several beverages). On the DVD shelf is almost a dozen movies, purchased and shown in the last few years for the benefit of others. On the bookcase, the holes speak of loaned out books, and on the desk, the thick folder of papers tells of numerous studies prepared to share on many occasions.

Similar observations could be made concerning the bulk of e-mails or the You Tube videos recommended, or the plethora of links to useful websites, and that's before the wealth of good things touched upon and exchanged in the vast number of conversations enjoyed in relation to the treasures of the truths found in these many locations.

John says it well in his first letter - because He gave Himself for us, we now seek to share something of such love with each other, especially seeking to meet the needs of our new family (1 John 3:16 & 17).
'Keeping the commandments', as he goes on to say, of believing and therefore loving each other is one of the key aspects of our faith, because it isn't just about doing what's required (as in paying the temple tax in Matthew), but discovering how extraordinary and rich life becomes as we seek to live together in the goodness of God's care and mercy. Our giving to each other deepens our life in God's love and allows us the wonder and joy of sharing such love, and that is one of the most glorious things we can do.

Jesus spoke of the coming creation being like a huge festival, where we sit down with each other at table and revel in the sheer delight of such a moment, and when we spend time together, focused around His goodness and care, allowing us a glimpse into the depths of that marvelous love that defines His nature, we find our hearts warmed and our souls hungry for what will define the everlasting ages ahead - deep, rich and unending fellowship.

The scripture encourage us - taste and see, for the Lord is good. Let us come and rejoice in that splendor together.