Acts 2:42 -- Isolation

They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and prayer.

Acts 2:42 (WEB)

I'm very much an introvert. A fact that's worsened by a dose of shyness.  I enjoy the times that I'm at the house alone, or with just my family. Likewise, I tend to be uncomfortable in crowds. Even small ones of 10 people or so.  In fact, it might be better to say that I crave the sense of solitude, and peace.   

And except for a short time in my  teenage years when I could not understand why I was so different than everyone else my age, I've accepted this. I'm comfortable in myself, and have come to grips fairly well with my various flaws, and the pursuits I'm taking in mitigating them.

But for all that I enjoy my solitude, at the same time I know that too much of it is not a good thing. If you get yourself too folded up in solitude, then that quickly shifts from something peaceful to an overwhelming sense of isolation. Something that can easily lead us to depression. 

The truth of the matter is that we're not supposed to be alone. We are made in God's image, male and female.  We crave relationships, and time with those that love us. 

In Acts 2:42, St. Luke discusses how the early church acted, expressly, he stated that the church continued in the apostle's teaching and in fellowship. That word fellowship is translated from κοινωνία koinōnia, and denotes having things in common, or participation, society, or friendship.  

But it's clear that the early church spent a lot of time together. Time spent learning, and in fellowship with one another.  Being friendly. Actions which usually ended with a meal modeled after the Last Supper (a meal followed with the Lord's Supper).  The point is that the church knew we need one another.  God even knew this at the beginning of everything, as after He had created man, he said "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him" (Genesis 2:18).

So, if you are an introvert, glory in the solitude and silences, but don't forget to gather together with friends, family and others for fellowship and socialization. Realize that being in those large groups, though uncomfortable, can ultimately help you as you create new friendships. It's okay to feel awkward and conspicuous, just don't let your initial feelings drive you from others.  It's okay to get your friends together with you, in pairs or even one at a time.  And it's okay to let your friends sometimes drag you to the large social things.

Additionally, if you're an extrovert, don't forget those of us who are introverts. Realize that we don't always thrive in large groups, but often truly enjoy time spent with others in small groups. That we may sometimes beg off the big parties or large social events. That it's okay if you don't drag us to the largest crowds, but that it's also okay if sometimes you do.  It's also okay to have a meal with just your introvert friend at times, you don't always have to invite a dozen other people. 

Know this, we're created to engage in relationships. To form friendships and bonds. With Him and with one another. 

Journal prompt: Describe specific challenges in some of your various relationships, and the last time you felt uncomfortable from being around too many people, or too few people.