Writing on thriving as Christians I try to address anything that threatens our abundant life God has promised each of us. Loneliness is a major problem in America and depression has reached new heights. I believe there is a close correlation to these two. It's easy to "cocoon" in your home with cable tv, internet and food delivery. Many people are working difficult jobs that drain them so that they hesitate to do anything that encourages a new friendship after work.
Being a single-again church member I am hearing and seeing an old problem that simply must be dealt with. I'm not lonely, but I can see how if I were made up differently I could be there quickly. I have come through many things in my professional life and eating out alone or traveling alone are not new to me. I am outgoing person, so I have made new connections to develop friendships for my life to be full.
But for the lonely in my sphere what should I do to help them? What can one person do? What if I work on that....what if?
My daughter called yesterday to talk about our holiday plans. I have always had a heart for the lonely. I told her we are down to such a tiny family I'd love to invite others to our feast. She agreed and we began thinking of those whose family lives hundreds of miles a way and cannot afford to travel this Thanksgiving. I'm looking forward to this holiday that I might well have had dreaded since this our first without my husband. The seats will be filled and we will celebrate together!
Loneliness is sad whenever it occurs in anyone. I know the church is upset that the divorce statistics are worse among church members than the population at large. Many resources are invested in keeping couples in healthy relationships. Keep it up...I agree wholeheartedly, but there is a huge percentage of members who are not married. Some never were married, and never will be. Some are widowed and some are divorced. No matter what, church should be a safe place that all members can find a friend easily. Loneliness as a issue for a church member just doesn't make sense to me when I read the New Testament. Right?
