I would have loved to talk about endurance today because I’m currently in a season when I’m learning to respond more naturally to difficulty with resilience rather than doubt or complacency. But my health has been very low these past few days, and my thoughts are all over the place to be expressed coherently. So, this newsletter will be shorter and more interactive than others, and I’ll talk about just one thing I did during the weekend, which I’m most grateful for.
Ever since I wrote that newsletter about showing up despite our fears, I’ve felt pressured to take action towards something I’ve wanted to do for a while now, which is making Christian friends offline. Sadly, I don’t have the most social life outside social media, and even in my church, I only talk to three people occasionally.
But I finally took a bold step when I joined a Tribe last weekend. Basically, a Tribe is a location-based group my church organizes, and members of the church are encouraged to join the one closest to their house. From what I’ve learnt so far, Tribe members meet three times a week—Tuesdays (for prayers), Fridays (for evangelism), and Saturdays (for evangelism, prayers, and one other activity that varies each week). I joined my Tribe last Saturday, and the activity we had after evangelism and prayers was our “Tribe party.”
During this “party,” we played board and card games (I particularly enjoyed the Ludo game because I’m so good at it), had some snacks and drinks, and saw this new Christian movie, Jesus Revolution. Unfortunately, we couldn’t watch the film until the end because it was getting late, and we had to return to our respective homes. But it truly was a lovely experience and everything I had hoped it would be.
Growing up, many Christians around me made having fun and unwinding with friends seem sinful. And while I understand how dangerous society’s idea of fun is today, it’s always fulfilling to see Christians who aren’t so uptight—whose idea of fun isn’t carnal and whose attitude towards harmless fun isn’t condemning, either. This and the fact that joining a Tribe thrust me into the evangelism field (what with my fear of talking to strangers) is what I’m most grateful for. And I look forward to seeing how this experience will help me improve as a Christian and not-very-social person over time.
But that’s that about me for now.
It’s your turn to share.
Community Questions
How has God been helping you show up in the areas you’re scared of (or anxious about) showing up?
And how is everything going with you lately?
If you would like to share anything besides your answers to these questions, please, feel free to.
A Few Things That Blessed Me This Week
The intentional support from friends and family who reached out to me now and then.
“You Say,” by Lauren Daigle. You can listen to it on YouTube Music, Spotify, or whichever app you use to stream music.
“I Love Your Presence,” by Bethel Music feat. Jenn Johnson. It’s also available on YouTube Music and Spotify.
“How Great Thou Art” by Jesus Image. You can find it on YouTube Music and Spotify.
You write so well, Obinna. It’s great reading from you again.
I wanted to comment on your last newsletter but something happened along the line and I lost track of my thoughts. I’m glad I can finish up with this comment today.
It’s great that you have joined a “tribe”. I like the sound of it. I wish I have one close to me that I can join too.
Over the past few years, I have realised firsthand how important good association and network is. As someone that is greatly influenced by people, I long daily to place myself within the right set of people and I hope God help me.
Again, it’s great reading from you again and I can’t wait for next week’s newsletter.
Kudos!
I always look forward to reading your newsletter, Obinna.
The last episode was amazing even though I couldn't comment due to some reasons. I thank God for using you to bless people like me.
I hope you're doing better now.
I discovered that since I gained admission into the university, I stopped having time for God. Using studies as an excuse. I knew I should be busy with God's service, but I just didn't have the time, or so I thought.
Recently, I joined a department in church after the Holy Spirit kept impressing it in my heart not to be idle. And I discovered that everything is working. I even understand whatever I read now more than before. And God has been faithful!
Everything is great, I've got peace and joy, and I feel more relaxed now.
I pray God continues to help us overcome our anxieties and fears and also help us come out of our comfort zones.
Do have a wonderful week ahead. God bless you.