Ties That Bind

This is the time of year that strikes fear in the hearts of introverts far and wide. In case the smell of pumpkin spice or the dip in temperatures didn't give it away, fall has announced its presence and Thanksgiving is around the corner. Like it or not, the season reminds us that we need to slow down and reflect. Time to become more mindful and intentional about the things that matter most. Rituals, memories, family stories and friendship take their rightful place on our planners, entering fierce competition with work priorities. If cortisol levels are any indication of health, most of us are fighting a losing battle just trying to maintain our peace and sanity. But let's not forget that life happens in the trenches when relationships are forged. Quality time, campfire smores and spiritual practices can make life so much richer. The ties that bind often come with rough edges and unique challenges that bring division. Yet we are created for covenant and designed for unity!

When Hurricane Ian took aim at the state of Florida, swaths of the state were on high alert. Tie downs and straps are commonly used to ground manufactured homes and prevent them from overturning during a storm. Like an anchor's function in stormy seas, the purpose is to reinforce and stabilize structures when they are assailed by high winds. Islands are often the hardest hit during hurricane season because they are easily surrounded and overwhelmed by the elements, since they lack natural barriers. We need others in our lives to help share the burdens in life and lone rangers don't have the best survival rates. Community matters! I learned the importance of shared stories when I introduced "Slim Jim" into our 6th grade classroom. A silly stuffed turkey (intended as fall décor) became our mascot and bonded students in an unexpected way. Legends, laughter, faith, and fun are the connective tissue for building timeless relationships.

Ties that bind serve as the bedrock of our lives. Thanksgiving is a great place to start, but we should be intentional about honoring the mentors and covenant relationships in our lives. Their broad shoulders allowed us to stand when life threw us a curve ball; they kept us in the game and their wisdom was foundational. As you grow, never forget your roots, and thank the people who cultivated your life. Just days ago, Don Warren (one of the best organ players of all time) went to his heavenly reward. His life was dedicated to continuing the ministry of H. Richard Hall, who had been his lifelong friend and mentor. They were bound together because of their spiritual calling, loyalty, and vision. H. Richard Hall's clarion call was "Grab the Torch and Catch the Flame!" Revival fires still burn because someone was willing to tend the embers and continue the legacy, even when it was inconvenient. We are created for community and our gifts belong to one another for spiritual edification!

At church, consider common ground instead of doctrinal differences. At work, celebrate differences and collaborate. Don't sacrifice your character at the corporate altar, but instead, promote unity within your ranks. Refuse the gossip and sit out the political games. Ties that bind can withstand storms because their strength is multiplied exponentially when combined. This month, whether your "family" consists of relatives, friends or a community of faith, there is an opportunity for personal growth during the holidays. Transparency and vulnerability are only possible in a culture of trust. Challenge yourself to love others well. Celebrate the function and honestly acknowledge the dysfunction. It is better to live in fellowship than to die in isolation. When ties bind effectively, gaps no longer exist and vulnerability is minimized. Sometimes, ties disintegrate over time, and they stop serving their function. Broken ties served for a season. But strong ties serve for a lifetime.

Colossians 3:14 (AMP)

Beyond all these things put on and wrap yourselves in [unselfish] love, which is the perfect bond of unity [for everything is bound together in agreement when each one seeks the best for others].