From Solitude to Community

November 7, 2008

“Why is it so important that solitude come before community?  If we do not know we are the beloved sons and daughters of God, we’re going to expect someone in the community to make us feel that way.  They cannot. ” — Henri Nouwen

As followers of Christ we are called to love one another.  We all know this.  The problem is if we don’t “know and rely on the love God has for us” (1 John 4:16), we end up using people instead of loving them.  Gaining our identity in God gives us the freedom to lose ourselves in love and service to others.  Notice the order, “Beloved, let us love one another” (1 John 4: 7).  First, be loved.  Second, love one another.   Solitude precedes community.

“But you have to pray.  You have to listen to the voice who calls you the beloved, because otherwise you will run around begging for affirmation, for praise, for success.  And then you’re not free.” — Nouwen

Have you taken time to simply be loved today?  Are you free to love others?

Posted by jamie roach | Filed Under Sacred Rhythm, Solitude 

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