Together
When my children were growing up, one of their favorite movies was High School Musical. In this movie, a group of athletes and science club members join together to win the science competition, the basketball game, and tryout for the musical play all at the same time. The group came together and sang a song titled “We’re All in This Together”, which became a big hit.
In the Bible, Luke understood the principle of togetherness. He shares two stories about different groups of people whose gatherings produce two different kinds of devotedness.
The first story Luke tells is about a group of Jesus’ closest followers who huddle together after Jesus’ crucifixion (Luke 24). Their togetherness is marked by fear, hiding, trembling, trouble, and doubt. While relatable in many ways, it isn’t a good scene. The disciples aren’t holding it together. Neither are they experiencing a togetherness that brings cooperation, intimacy with God, encouragement, or inspiration.
The second story is quite the opposite. Luke tells about a group of faithful believers who gather together some time after Jesus’ resurrection and subsequent ascension into heaven (Acts 2). Their togetherness is marked by devotion, harmony, awe, sincerity, praise, and joy as they meet daily to worship, learn, eat, share, give, and pray.
What’s the difference in these two stories? The first group is focused on the problem and does not stay focused on God. They do not realize what the second group understands, believes, and experiences together: the power of our resurrected Savior and the inner presence and peace of the Holy Spirit.
Which group represents your attitude? Will the power of the resurrected Lord and the inner presence and peace of the Holy Spirit mark your togetherness with others today and in the future? I pray that it will. It’s the only way to truly do life.