This week, Danny Busch continued our series in the book of Ecclesiastes. In the first week of the series, we learned about vapor management. Culture would say we're defined by the vapor we have. God asks what we're doing with the vapor He has given us. Last week, Pastor Dale taught how the uncreated places eternity in the hearts of the created. Jesus calls this the Kingdom of God. We can experience and cultivate the kingdom of God now by being in relationship with Jesus. This week, we looked at Chapter 4 where the teacher transitions into how we practically do this. It is through relationships.

In Chapter 4 the teacher shares how he had wealth, yet it was meaningless. The teacher then shares the importance of being with another and how two people are better than one. As the teacher looks back on his life, he realizes the success and wealth at the expense of isolation weren’t worth it. 

In culture today, loneliness is rampant. People are feeling unseen, unknown, isolated. Isolation isn't something that just happens. It's something people drift into over time. The question becomes, how do we get out of isolation? How can we come alongside others to keep them from being isolated?

One of the best ways to combat loneliness is to serve. It immediately connects us to others and if you ask someone who has served or if you reflect on your own experiences serving, you'll likely hear about or remember the innate joy that is felt as you serve another. For opportunities to step into, simply scroll to the bottom of the email.

The second way to combat isolation and loneliness is to invest in relationships. Scripture shows us we are meant to do life with one another, to bear one another's burdens.

Our invitation to you is to sit with the Father and ask: Father, as I survey my life, are there places where I've isolated myself? Is there a wound that needs tending to?

If you felt the Father answer yes, if you feel lonely or isolated, would you be willing to tell someone you need help carrying your burden? If we can be this support for you we'd be honored to do so. Simply email us at prayer@calvarylg.com and we will connect with you and pray for you.