You are reading the 40th issue of Drawing Near, a newsletter to encourage connection and soften the ache of loneliness. Each week, you'll receive inspiration for connecting with God, yourself, and the people around you. To see previous issues, go to our newsletter page.

Connect with God

Rest in the power of the True Vine:

"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me."​
​John 15:4 ESV​

Some questions to deepen your thoughts (journal them or just pause and consider them):

1. What does it mean to abide?
2. How are you abiding in Christ today?
3. Can you tell a difference (do you see fruit) when you spend time with the Lord?

Connect with Yourself

On liking yourself from James Clear's latest newsletter. The last sentence is the one that rings true. As we learn to see ourselves the way God sees us, then we are more open and at ease among others:

"There are many elements of living a good life, but the first and most foundational is to love yourself and enjoy spending time with yourself.

Go do things on your own so you learn to trust your mind and view it as a welcome companion. If someone declared, "Tomorrow you must spend the day alone" the hope is that you would reply, "That sounds like a good day!"

The person who is at ease within finds every other space larger and more enjoyable."

Connect with Others

Poet Deidre Braley wrote this meaningful reflection on choosing village life over Instagram, "Baked Bean Suppers & Phones on the Wall":

"...I wonder: if we all find the courage to ask God to turn our chins from the worthless things we’ve been consuming, will he turn each of us around…and point us toward one another? Will he push us together into smaller circles, and say, 'Live together. Take care of one another. This is my way. And in my way, there is life.'"

As you walk the path of life, may connection with God, yourself, and others be the stepping stones that lead you home.

P.S. "You don't have to earn rest. You just have to receive it."​

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