INSIGHT 54 november 2024 Good news • South Florida edition My cell phone rang, and it was the type of call you never want to receive. A OneHope team member had been in a horrific motorcycle accident. He was fighting for his life, and it was unclear whether he would make it through the night. I immediately sent an urgent message to my team, asking for prayers for wisdom for the medical professionals treating him. Responses began pouring in. As I reflect on a season that encourages us to pause and give thanks for our blessings, I’m reminded of one of life’s greatest gifts — the gift of community. In moments of unexpected uncertainty, I’m deeply grateful for the strength of a close-knit community. Friends and coworkers came together, offering prayers, meals for the family staying at the hospital, and notes of encouragement. Miraculously, the team member survived, and weeks later, he continues to astonish the doctors with his recovery. Community is more than just support in a crisis — it's a well of strength we draw from, especially when we need it most. Jesus cultivated community Even Jesus was intentional about cultivating close community during His time on earth. While often surrounded by large crowds, it was the group of twelve disciples who formed His closest circle. These friends weren’t just followers; they were companions sharing life’s journey with Him. We see the discretion between the crowds and disciples in John 6:1-3 which says, “Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias), and a great crowd of people followed him because they saw the signs he had performed by healing the sick. Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down with his disciples.” (NIV) Together, they experienced everything from miraculous healings and feeding thousands to moments of intense challenge and doubt. One notable instance was when they were caught in a violent storm at sea, certain they would perish. Jesus calmed the waves with a single command. But beyond grand events, they also shared in everyday experiences: long walks from town to town, meals by the fire and conversations along the roadside. In these ordinary moments, they also grew in understanding of Jesus and one another. True community is a blessing because you have people to walk with through every step of the journey — all the highs and lows and in the simplicity of ordinary life. Growing together Community also helps us intentionally grow. Everyone can benefit when surrounded by people who have different strengths and perspectives than you. In South Florida, there are groups of churches working together to see even more impact and ministry across the area. They are learning and growing together: iron sharpening iron. Intentional community is vital. By investing in meaningful connections, we can build a foundation that carries us through both the joys and challenges of life. I’m especially grateful for the gift of community and the richness it brings to my journey. Rob is President of OneHope, a global ministry committed to catalyzing a movement to engage every child in the world with God's Word. Rob is also Chair of Come Near (He Gets Us.) and a member of the Board of Trustees for the Come and See Foundation (The Chosen). His mission statement in life is to “build young leaders and serve great leaders.” P R E T EATR TORCH & TH S E N T S E COMPANY & TRUMPET Licensin Global w Presented by specia g ( ww.broa w ylicensing.co ) al arrangeme t ith Bro w y ntw ad a www d ay m The Gift of Community - Rob Hoskins - OneHope President
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