Face-to-Face

2 John 12-13 I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. 13 The children of your chosen sister send their greetings.
 
WE are created to be with other people. When God completed his work of creation the only thing that was not good was Adam living by himself. Genesis 2:18 The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” As his helper, Eve was to add to the man, so they would be together in such godly traits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness and self-control between them. Together they were to rule over God’s creation. God and the first couple enjoyed a very personal and loving face-to-face relationship.
   Sin’s first impact on that relationship caused Adam and Eve to hide from God. In their shame, they could not look upon God’s face.
   We still want the face-to-face fellowship lost in Eden. It is mankind’s inherited desire to be in complete union with God and to see God’s face again. It is God’s desire, too. That’s his promise through the cross. Revelation 22:3 No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. 4 They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5 There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever. Eternity is enjoying the same relationship with God as the first couple knew in Eden’s perfection.
   John could write letters to fill many pages, but the best way to communicate with the church is to meet face-to-face. This is foundational to all organizations. People need to meet in person for the most effective communications. Successful families take time to be with each other. Personal relationships demand personal contact.
   That’s why people are lonely. Amid our technology that can connect instantly with someone on the other side of the world, we feel out of touch because we don’t touch each other. Somehow we have too little time for each other. The pandemic has caused many to reject the personal relationships of the church. Watching worship online may be good for those unable to attend. But it is “not good for them to be alone” if they have strength and health to join with others.
   When did you last show hospitality to invite someone into your home? Or who should you call to meet for a time to be together? Who do you need to meet face-to-face? Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans 12:13)