You are reading the 47th 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

How a spirit-fueled life leads to community by Twyla Franz:

"Maybe the joy that bubbles within us when we’re in a circle of friends hints at the pure joy Jesus feels when we enjoy His company."

​Read the full post here.​

Connect with Yourself

Why you need to make yourself a little retreat bag by Alison Bradley:

"It can feel embarrassing to forget what makes me feel like myself. But in the midst of a new season or a very full one, (and I’m pretty sure I’m in the thick of both) it can be such a gift to offer myself the gentleness of remembering."

​Read the full post here.​

Connect with Others

Welcoming others into our homes is a generous gift in a time when so many are hungry for connection. But it can be intimidating and stressful. Kendra Adachi, aka the Lazy Genius, is a pro at helping us start small and name what matters. I loved every second of her latest podcast episode, "10 Things I Always Do When I Have People Over."​

"Hospitality is generous. You’re giving them something of your own, whether it’s food, time, a listening ear, or just a safe place to be themselves."

And don't miss the end, even if you only listen to the end, she gives a mini pep talk for when you're lonely. I wish I could paste the whole thing here, but this is just a taste:

"If you’re feeling lonely, every single smile you offer someone else matters, even if it’s just you being an open person. Every single class you go to without making a friend matters because it grows your muscles to try. Every single person you hang out with that you don’t click with is just sifting through until you find the one that does. You might not come out on the other side of your loneliness with a gaggle of friends that you go on vacation with, but you will be less lonely with even just one. And you’re also making that person less lonely by being yourself with them, too."

Praying for open hands, open eyes, and open hearts. May you offer and receive these gifts in abundance 🧡

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