In more than one place in the gospel of John, Jesus used this word abide. Abide in me, as Jesus abides in the Father. Stay connected, apart from God we cannot bear fruit. In John and other places in scripture we get a picture that connection to God happens intentionally, through habits and practices.

In a world where independence and self-sufficiency are held as positive and important values, how do we contrast the call from scripture to meet together, encourage each other, and be shaped by the people around you?