City Life Starter

Written by Aisha Darwesh

The Word

^5–6 For it was always in his perfect plan to adopt us as his delightful children, through our union with Jesus, the Anointed One, so that his tremendous love that cascades over us would glorify his grace—for the same love he has for the Beloved, Jesus, he has for us. And this unfolding plan brings him great pleasure!

Ephesians 1:5-6 (TPT)

¹⁴ You are my friends if you do what I command. ¹⁵ I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. ¹⁶ You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. ¹⁷ This is my command: Love each other.

John 15:14-17 (NLT)

Aisha’s Analysis

It always amazes me to think that Jesus, who was absolutely perfect, multi-talented, and in constant fellowship with God, actually chose 12 very imperfect, flawed disciples to do life with on a day-to-day basis. If this doesn’t just show us our need for community, I don’t know what does! 

Jesus displays how to satisfy our innate need for belonging beautifully. He was intentional about His relationships, spent time ministering to and teaching people, and also carved out time in His schedule to pray and be alone with God. 

Although He was constantly surrounded by people, He remained in tune with God and was prudent not to entrust Himself to people. He entrusted Himself completely to God. In doing so, Jesus was able to enjoy people right where they were. 

For example, He was able to proceed on a donkey and receive praises from the people in His triumphal entry, knowing full well these same people would soon be yelling “Crucify Him!” He also washed His disciples’ feet knowing they would abandon Him when things took a turn for the worst. See John 12 and 13.  

The fact is no matter how imperfect the people God has placed in your life may be, we need each other. God has designed His kingdom to operate through relationships. We, as a body of believers, are incomplete and severely disadvantaged when we are not in fellowship and unity with each other. 

Application

Jesus showed us that people do not have to be perfect for you to celebrate with them or serve them. Because King Jesus made a way for us to be in right standing with God, we can now live in peace within ourselves and with other people. 

Today, forge the bond of friendship in your life. Make time for solitude to connect with God. Let His healing presence wash over you. 

Also, make time to connect with others. Give someone a call or write them a handwritten note. Pray for the people God has placed in your life, and ask God to give you an encouraging word for them. 

Prayer

Father God, thank You for completely satisfying my need for belonging. Because of Your unfailing love, I am accepted in the Beloved. Empower me to know You more deeply. In Jesus’ name, amen.