Some Christians think solitude is more spiritual than fellowship—that being devout means being alone. Jesus made time every day for prayer to the Father (he was not really “alone” at all). And He tells us to “go to an inner room to pray in secret.” Similarly, we should read and study the word alone, so that we can give the text our full attention and best energy, without distractions.
But God limits our solitude. We are called to live in families and in “community” with other believers. Solitude has a purpose, but it is limited and brief. Deep Christian relationships with honesty and accountability are a key to spiritual health.
On top of that, God created a calendar literally FILLED with holidays and festivals.
“In the seventh month, the first day of the month… will be a day of joyful shouting for you…. On the tenth day of the seventh month, you must practice self-denial…. On the fifteenth day of the seventh month, you are to celebrate a seven-day festival to the Lord….” Numbers 29:1-35.
The Old Testament is filled with passages like the one above—35 verses that detail every step to properly celebrating various holidays, feast days, and fast days.
Do you believe solitude trumps togetherness, or that being introverted is more spiritual than being extroverted? The Bible values both. Jesus did both.
He prayed alone all the time–and He surrounded Himself with people just as often. God placed parties and festivals throughout the entire year. We must need them. We need each other, we need fellowship, we need to know and be known. We need accountability.
GOD DID NOT MAKE LONE RANGER CHRISTIANS.
We exist to live in community with others. Solitude has its place. But never underestimate the critical importance of RELATIONSHIPS. Nothing is more important. Plus—it’s fun! Relationships are hard work, but so rewarding.
God, keep us living in community! Never let us ignore the value of relationships—and parties and festivals and holidays of all kinds.
ΑΩ
Household Words: 