Being present with others...
The human experience is only designed to be shared in community. Whether those things material, invisible emotion or matters of the Spirit, we are meant to be present with one another in both joy and pain.
The Bible says, "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep." (Romans 12:15 ESV)
John Gill says we should rejoice, indeed, but, "...not in anything sinful and criminal...[not] in men's own boastings; all such rejoicing is evil, and not to be joined in; but in things good and laudable, as in outward prosperity." (Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible)
Now, THAT is solid. We don't rejoice with people over sin or in sin or because of the gains of sin. However, in any good or righteous thing, let us be quick to praise God and join in the joy of whatever is good in someone's life.
And, whenever someone is grieving or struggling or hurting; whenever someone is going through some physical, emotional or spiritual pain, purposely join in their grief. Bear it with them. Be present with them in the midst of the weight.
We are designed for community. We are designed to bear together what we can not AND what we should not bear alone. The very nature of the church is community; we share Christ together or we know Him not personally! All genuine fellowship IS sharing God together!
Whatever; whoever; whenever -- be present with the Body of Christ, both in her meetings, and in each part's joy and grief. This is the will of God in Christ Jesus, our Lord.
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