Fall brings opportunities for gathering with friends and loved ones. Kids see beloved friends and make new ones when they return to school. Families meet for holidays or to visit a pumpkin patch. Members of churches come together to serve one another and reach out to their communities.  

People benefit from times of fellowship since God did not create humans to be alone (Genesis 2:18). He made us to be in communion with others and with Him. As the church, we are the body of Christ and are meant to be connected with other Christians (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). We should not walk through life alone, separated from our brothers and sisters in Christ.  

Whenever we spend time with others, loving them as Jesus calls us to, we show love for the Lord while also receiving an overflow of His love. He uses our gatherings to bless us and others with the gift of soul-strengthening friendships and fellowship with believers.  

Thus, time with others becomes a way to experience God’s love and goodness. We learn we are not alone. God gives us physical examples of individuals who care about us, reflecting His greater love for us.  

If we ever struggle to feel that God does not care, we should stop to notice the ordinary blessings around us. He gave us autumn and every other good thing we can see, touch, hear, taste, and smell. And He gave us His Son, who died for us to free us from sin’s curse. May the beauty and fellowship that come with the fading of summer into fall point us to His love.  

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Sophia Bricker is a writer. Her mission is to help others grow in their relationship with Jesus through thoughtful articles, devotionals, and stories. She completed a BA and MA in Christian ministry, which included extensive study of the Bible and theology, and an MFA in creative writing. You can follow her blog about her story, faith, and creativity at The Cross, a Pen, and a Page.