First Baptist Church of Herndon

Making Connections

Linda Soller | Oct 07, 2013

Herndon was a small town when I was growing up. I know I have said it before, but it was really small. By the time I reached middle school the planned community of Reston was taking hold and growing. Most of the people were moving in from other states or from locations closer to D.C. My best friend was one of those new Reston kids, but we connected like we had known each other forever. After high school we weren’t drawn to the same college, but we didn’t let that come between our friendship. Life happened as it will do. We moved about, were in each other’s weddings, and well, it has been a long story, but a happy one. All these years later we are still very close, even though our visits are few and far between. Over time our mothers have also become friends. The four of us just love being together and when we are together we pick up just where we left off.

Connections aren’t about proximity alone. True, our paths had to cross at some point, but we both had to be open to becoming and remaining friends. For every characteristic we shared, there was something that made us different. For every interest or experience we had in common there were things that were unique to one or the other. Making a connection and keeping connected takes effort from all involved.

I often write in this blog about finding a church that suits you. I think in our crazy, demanding world that everyone needs to find a church home. This time I want to be careful to point out that your connection to that church may, no will, take some effort on your part. While the congregation reaches out to meet you, you’ll have to reach back, or at the very least cut them some slack if they’re not perfect the first time you meet. Not everyone was enthralled with Jesus at first. Powerful religious leaders doubted him and mistrusted his motives. The people who worked at and were receptive to making a connection with Jesus were the real winners.

I remember thinking when the Reston kids started moving in that they seemed different, and honestly our little town was growing too fast for my taste. I would never have guessed that one of those new kids would be a life-long friend, someone who would be such an integral part of the person I have become. Our connection has given us joy in times of sadness, strength when we faced problems, and only seems to grown stronger.

Connections in church work much the same way. You will find there are friends to share in your joy and friends to be there when you need support. You will be connected by the faith you share. The unique qualities you bring to the relationship will help the congregation to thrive. You will have some members you are closer to than others, but that is okay.

This past weekend I got to spend time with my best friend, our moms, and one of my daughters. All I could think about was how fortunate I was to have made that connection all those years ago. Isn’t it time you got connected?

Have a great week :o) Linda