Eternal Connections

by Macy Johnson

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”

(1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV)

A new year dawned. In my early morning devotions I asked God, “What is your “word” for me for the year ahead?” It came loud and clear: Connections.

As the new year’s days progressed, I re-connected with my childhood best friend on Facebook and my brother and cousins at our aunt’s memorial service. My biological half-sister flew across the country to solidify our new-found relationship, conceived through a DNA test.

I submitted my DNA-connection narrative to 23andme. They wanted to learn more of how their product created my new relationships. During a Skype interview, Kelly, their story producer, asked me what I would say to someone who is considering 23andme. I simply replied, “Take the test!”

My daughter tried out for her school’s Dance Team many years ago. After four grueling afternoons of lengthy tryouts, she wasn’t chosen but was not disappointed. Libby loved to dance, learn new songs, and be with her friends. She learned how to enjoy the process. Libby experienced many new connections that are still strong today.

God calls us to connect with others, as He has connected with us. We may never know in this life what He does in and through our associations. He came to earth in the form of a man, Jesus, to bind us together with Him, to reveal how each of us is vital in His church, His body.

Connections require love - a risky, selfless sacrifice of our time and energy for the eternal benefit of others.

I will seek out new associations today and re-kindle old ones. I hope you will, too!