We started our study of Esther this week, and I was so grateful for the twenty-one women that signed up for the study, all very hungry both for a deeper understanding of Scripture and for fellowship with other Christian women. To be honest, I had no preparation as to how to start our study or discussion, but at the very last minute God prompted me to write four questions on the board. I knew we were going to be tight on time with an hour video, but I also knew that everyone needed to have the chance to get to know the other women in the room. Was I ever glad that I decided to open up the floor for sharing our answers to those four "simple" questions because I was amazed at how much these women want and need a safe place in their lives to just be real. I am really looking forward to the next nine weeks of study with them, not only to understand Scripture more because of the Biblical history that we learn along with it, but also to just enjoy the fellowship and to bond with one another. It is truly my favorite place to be (besides with my family).
Authentic fellowship is not superficial, surface-level chit-chat. It is
genuine, heart-to-heart, sometimes gut-level, sharing. It happens when people
get honest about who they are and what is happening in their lives. They share
their hurts, reveal their feelings, confess their failures, disclose their
doubts, admit their fears, acknowledge their weaknesses, and ask for help and
prayer." (Purpose Driven Life, Day 18).
My prayer is that in addition to growing closer to Christ and becoming more Biblically literate, we will share authentic fellowship as we bond together.
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