Relationships

     As I sat in the 57th Homecoming service of Bible Baptist Church this morning, I was reminded of the importance of building relationships. As the quartet sang, my mind wandered a bit as I looked around at the guest pastor, Dr. Max Alderman with wife Rhonda by his side (pastored the precious folks of BBC for 27 years) and as I glanced around at the precious folks that have been co-laborers for the Lord for years and years. I thought about the fact that they have worked together, weeped together, laughed together, rejoiced together and mourned together. They have a bond that will be for all time and eternity.
     As I now sit here at home, I think of all the relationships that the Lord has allowed us to build through-out the years. There have been those that we have co-labored with in the past that I hold very dear. We are now here with the folks of BBC and are still building lasting and eternal relationships. I am so thankful for each and every one of them and the relationships that we share. Whether it be past or present relationships, relationships are so important. As the years in the ministry go by, I realize how many times I have taken relationships for granted in the past.
       In regard to relationships...I hear so many people throw around terms like "breaking fellowship" with other believers for one reason or another. Let me just say...we should never break fellowship over preferences. For many, it is not even for doctrinal reasons, but rather because people are not what they "think" that they should be. We ought to be so careful. Imagine the pastors that will give an account for leading a congregation against a believer (or group of them) that they once held dear relationships with. Yes, we need each other dear friends and should never think of ourselves as a "notch above" anyone...regardless of our preferences.
     I told my ladies at our last ladies meeting..."You can learn from everyone!"...Without compromise, might I add. Whether people are "like" you or not, do not sever relationships or break fellowship over un-doctrinal matters. We need people, and can learn from them, and likewise they can learn from us. "A man that hath friends must show himself friendly."
    Be wise, do not fall into the trap of the devil and separate yourself from those in whom you can learn from and from those in whom you can teach. You may be forfeiting the golden opportunity that the Lord has placed before you. Someone else will receive the reward intended for you in the end.
I hope today that you will contemplate reconciliation in areas that you have fallen into this trap, as well as seek opportunities for building eternal relationships rather than relationships built on preferences or people that mimic you. We are different and that makes us quite unique. Love people for who they are, and learn from them where you can. A teachable spirit will take us a long way!
    I wish you the best, and like Paul..."I thank God upon every remembrance of you."

 I count it an honor to call you friend-Jen