Much of the New Testament of the Bible is filled with letters written by Paul to friends of faith. Together they had started churches, and together put their whole heart and soul into the ministry of Jesus Christ. They had taken risks, worked hard, worshipped together, and shared the Lord’s Supper. They had loved, laughed, and cried together. In almost every letter Paul begins with telling them that he thanks God for them. He prays for them with joy. He cherishes their partnership in the gospel. They are mutually encouraged by each other’s faith. He says, ” I hold you in my heart.” (Philippians 1:7). “It is my prayer that your love may abound more and more.” (Philippians 1:9).
Paul is especially close to Timothy whom he calls his beloved child in the faith. Paul was a mentor to Timothy who began ministry at a young age and traveled with Paul. In 2 Timothy 1:3, Paul says to Timothy, “I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day”. Clearly all these people were very dear to Paul. That’s how it is in the community of faith. There is a bond and an intimacy that only Christ can bring in the depth of love and communication that is present. It is very special and something we all treasure. Indeed, it is something we all need.

In this book, John Powell presents different levels of communication. As he talks about Level One: Peak Communication, he shares a quote by A. H. Maslow:

As I remember my life of faith shared with many dear and wonderful people, I realize it is all about these special moments of deep communion with each other. The love of Christ unites us in a unique way and allows the moments of peak communication. The ancient Apostles Creed proclaims our faith, “I believe in the communion of the saints.” It’s such a beautiful gift we share! Thanks God!
Pondering…
What do the pictures look like of your moments of “perfect communication”?
nk