Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (TLB)
Two can accomplish more than twice as much as one, for the results can be much better. If one falls, the other pulls him up; but if a man falls when he is alone, he's in trouble. Also, on a cold night, two under the same blanket gain warmth from each other, but how can one be warm alone?
Hebrews 12:1-2, 12-13 (RSV)
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith...
Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but healed.
After listening to the magnificent voices of Kelly Clarkson and Pink sing the song "Everybody Hurts," I was moved to tears. I felt touched by the common human experience of emotional pain that crosses all cultures, all over the world. Secondly, if we are not able to be touched by someone else's pain, we are in a very numb and in a useless state indeed, and that is sad. Hearing the blend of their powerful, beautiful voices drove home the reality that two are often better than one. Sometimes we humans do have the ability to gloriously bring out the best in each other. We were never meant to be alone, to hurt alone, and be separated from the comfort and support of others. Thank God for people in our lives that bring out the best in us, creating lives that are a beautiful song. We were not designed to be isolated, but to be connected to others in an uplifting harmony. It is why our Lord wants us all to gather regularly and to be part of a supportive, faith filled, loving local church.
(You may want to check this amazing duet out on YouTube: Everybody Hurts, Pink & Kelly Clarkson, AMA Awards 2017)
Dear Lord, You are great, and mighty, and worthy of all praise. You have designed us to be supportive and instrumental in the well-being of others. May we have a heart of compassion like you have. May we always be responsive to the needs of others. I am grateful that you have made me part of your Body of Believers. Help me to function within that body to my utmost. Help me to join with others in harmony to proclaim who you are, and to spread the joy of your salvation offered to all humanity. In Jesus' name... Amen.
