If there’s one thing the COVID-19 shutdown taught me, it’s how much we need each other. Before 2020, I thought I had a pretty solid handle on my social life. I’d meet friends for coffee, enjoy church gatherings, and keep up with others through social media. But when the world shut down—and my own immune system was compromised due to a wound VAC—it felt like the walls closed in.
Isolation became the new normal, and loneliness quickly followed. I knew I couldn’t put myself at unnecessary risk, but I also couldn’t let loneliness win. So, I prayed, leaned into God’s Word, and took intentional steps to rediscover community—despite the challenges. Here’s my story of how I navigated this season, what I learned, and how God led me back to meaningful connection.
Taking Precautions Without Losing Connection
With a compromised immune system, I knew I had to be extra careful. Washing my hands, staying away from anyone who was sick, and using discernment became daily routines. I sought the Holy Spirit’s guidance to navigate every decision, asking, Should I go here? Is it safe to meet with this person?
At first, I leaned heavily on digital platforms to connect with others. Social media was a lifeline, giving me the chance to engage with people all over the world. I found my tribe online—people who shared my faith, my struggles, and even my sense of humor. For a while, it felt like enough.
But as the weeks turned into months, I realized that something was missing. No amount of likes or comments could replace the deep, face-to-face connections my soul craved. That’s when I decided to take the next step.
Finding Connection in Smaller, Intentional Ways
Instead of large gatherings, I focused on smaller, more intentional meet-ups. Coffee with a friend at a quiet café, a heart-to-heart at someone’s kitchen table, or a walk in the park with a family member became my new normal. These one-on-one and small group moments were simple but deeply fulfilling.
I also leaned into my relationships with close family members and friends. Whether it was inviting someone over or visiting them at their home, I found that these smaller settings allowed for more meaningful conversations and deeper bonds.
Through it all, I asked God each morning to guide my steps. Lord, lead me today. Show me who needs encouragement or a listening ear. Help me to be wise but not fearful. And He did.
Staying Grounded in Church Community
One of the biggest challenges was maintaining my connection to church. Thankfully, my church family made it possible to stay involved safely. From online services to small in-person gatherings with proper precautions, I found ways to worship and fellowship.
This wasn’t just about checking a box; it was about being part of the body of Christ. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us to keep meeting together, and I saw firsthand how important that was. Even when I couldn’t attend large services, I stayed connected through prayer groups, Bible studies, and conversations with fellow believers.
Biblical Truths That Led Me Through
As I navigated this season, several biblical truths became my foundation:
- “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34).
Love means showing up—even if it’s in unconventional ways. Sometimes it looked like sending a text or dropping off a meal. Other times, it was making time for an intentional conversation.
- “Carry each other’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2).
I learned to share my struggles with trusted friends and to listen when they needed support. Community isn’t just about what we can get—it’s about what we can give.
- “Do not give up meeting together” (Hebrews 10:25).
Even during isolation, I found ways to meet—whether online or in person. God’s design for community doesn’t stop in hard seasons; it adapts.
- “Speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15).
Honest, grace-filled conversations helped me grow and strengthened my relationships.
Lessons Learned and Practical Steps
Looking back, I see how God used this challenging season to deepen my understanding of community. Here are some steps that helped me rediscover connection—and might help you, too:
1. Start Small
Don’t underestimate the power of a one-on-one conversation. Whether it’s over coffee or a phone call, these moments matter.
2. Be Intentional
Schedule time to connect with people. Relationships don’t grow by accident; they take effort and planning.
3. Use Technology Wisely
Social media and video calls are tools, but they’re not a replacement for real connection. Use them to supplement your relationships, not to replace them.
4. Pray for Guidance
Ask God to lead you to the right people and opportunities. He knows who needs encouragement—and who can encourage you.
5. Serve Others
Serving creates connection. Whether it’s delivering groceries to a neighbor or volunteering with a small group, shared purpose brings people together.
Full-Circle Faith: Rediscovering God’s Design
As I reflect on this journey, I’m amazed at how God met me in my loneliness. He didn’t just show me how to reconnect with others—He reminded me of His ultimate design for community.
We were never meant to do life alone. When we rediscover community, we experience the love, support, and joy that God intended.
So, let me leave you with this: Who can you reach out to today? Whether it’s a family member, a friend, or someone in your church, take a step toward connection. You never know how much that simple act of reaching out could mean to them—or to you.
And remember, you’re never truly alone. God is with you, guiding your steps, and placing people in your path. Let’s rediscover the beauty of community together.
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