Radical Connection

SHARING LIFE & DISCOVERING HOPE

We were created for radical connection—authentic and balanced relationships rooted in love and steeped in prayer. Reaching out is a risk, but the greater risk is living life alone.

RADICAL CONNECTION

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. (Matthew 18:20)

Matthew 18:20 begins with the words, For where two—and that’s significant, especially for those of us affected by chronic illness, mental illness, chronic pain, or disability. Living with or caring for someone with pain or illness is time-consuming, challenging, and exhausting. That’s why those three words (followed by the rest of the phrase) are so important: for where two…gather in my name, there am I with them. Emmanuel. God with us.

Jesus clearly states that if we are connected to just one other person, that is enough. That is radical, countercultural, and against the current. Radical connection is an investment in another child of God. It isn’t about who we click with or are comfortable with; it’s about who Jesus lays on our hearts for this part of the journey. Isn’t that the true nature of who we are called to be, two (or more) people patiently sharing life and discovering hope in the presence of Jesus—together?

Those who are deeply connected:

• value one another as is, authentic and imperfect.
• process illness or pain together.
• listen without judgment or agenda.
• sacrifice the time and space both need to process the difficult days.
• are compassionate and honest, speaking the truth in love.
• inspire one another to lean deeper into Jesus.

CONNECTING IS A RISK

Some friends play at friendship, but a true friend sticks closer than one’s nearest kin. (Proverbs 18:24)

We were created for connection, yet forming deep friendships can seem daunting. We long to be seen and known, yet worry that others won’t like the real us. What if they think we’re too much, or too needy, or not enough? What if we don’t fit in? What if we make fools of ourselves? What if others hurt us, use us, or leave us?

Choosing to connect is a risk, but living in the fear of what if is even harder.

Radical Connection is rooted in love, steeped in prayer, and known by its fruits: kindness, compassion, courage, sacrifice, generosity, and forgiveness.

Authenticity can feel riskier than extending a new invitation, yet when we willingly share something humble and real, others feel invited to do the same. However, this does require balance. A thoughtful collaboration of listening and sharing (built on presence and humility) shows that we value others’ hearts, time, and stories.

WHEN FEAR DISCONNECTS US

Fear causes us to feel defensive, distant, or controlling. It causes us to attempt to manage every detail to protect ourselves and to hold others at arm’s length, creating the illusion that we can’t be hurt, rejected, or abandoned.

Yet fear wasn’t kindled the first time we were hurt. Its roots go back to the Garden of Eden. After Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, God came looking for them, calling out, “Where are you?” Adam answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so, I hid.” (Genesis 3:10)

So, I hid.

Truthfully, many of us are still hiding today, but our fear does not keep us safe. It simply ensures that we are alone.

God’s way is different. He says, “There is no fear in love. Instead, perfect love drives away fear.” (1 John 4:18) Our fear is no match for the love of Christ.

So, where do we begin?

SEVEN STEPS TO RADICALLY CONNECT WITH OTHERS

1. Pray for courage and God’s perfect timing.
2. Take a risk and invite someone to connect.
3. Listen patiently without judgment or agenda.
4. Be willing to share something authentic.
5. Stay present in the conversation and ask thoughtful questions.
6. Keep showing up.
7. Get involved with Chronic Joy to become an Ambassador of Kindness.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

• When do you feel most alone?
• What makes it most difficult for you to connect?
• What is your greatest fear? Where did it begin?
• Who can you invite to connect with you this week?

PRAYER FOR CONNECTING

Dear Lord, You created us for connection. When Adam was without a companion, You created Eve. Two by two, You brought the animals to the ark and sent the disciples out into the world. Your Word promises that where two or three are gathered in Your name, You are with them. Two can share each other’s burdens and joys, support and encourage one another, and hold each other accountable. Thank You for the gift of connection, for even when I feel most alone, I am two by two with You, Lord. Amen.

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