The Evangelist John speaks of fellowship in the early Christian community in a way that differs from a modern understanding of that term. Today, the word fellowship most often refers to a social gathering with family and friends, especially at church. These gatherings are a point in time for shared activities, friendly conversation, or the presentation of a worthwhile topic. Sometimes we serve food and refreshments at these gatherings. At the conclusion, we often leave with pleasant memories and a feeling of connection with those who share our values and interests.
For John and the early Christians, however, fellowship went beyond a point in time to a chosen way of life centered on love for one another in the spirit of Christ. This way of life derived from belief in Jesus Christ and a commitment to imitate him by carrying out the heavenly Father’s will. As John puts it in his letter, “what we have seen and heard we proclaim now to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; for our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ (1Jn1:3).
The aim of such Christian fellowship was to promote charitable living and to strengthen the faith of the community members. Fellowship on these terms relied on the idea that knowledge of God and love for one another are inseparable. This idea reflects a common focus on charitable living found throughout the New Testament—not only in word and speech—but also in deed and in truth (1 Jn 3:17-18). In fact, John’s gospel points to charitable living as the lifeblood of Christian fellowship.
St. Paul expresses a similar idea in his letter to the Philippians. In that letter, Paul says very plainly that, “If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing. Do nothing out of selfishness or egotism. Rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for one’s own interests, but for the interests of others. Have among yourselves the same attitude that Christ Jesus had (Phil 2:1-4).
Long before Paul wrote this advice, however, the Annunciation provides a prime example of Christian fellowship. Mary’s response to the angel Gabriel was to devote herself to Christ even before she understood the full ramifications of that commitment. Thereafter, Mary expressed her faith and union with Christ in her love for others, especially at the Visitation. At that time, Mary not only brought the good news about Jesus to Elizabeth. She also spent time with Elizabeth caring for her during her pregnancy. Care and concern for others is at the heart of a life based on Christian fellowship.
This is the spiritual legacy and way of life that we have inherited from the early followers of Christ. Accepting that inheritance in the spirit of Mary calls us into partnership with Christ to love what God loves—his children and his creation. This is the whole point of the two great commandments. Although love on these terms can be a tall order at times, the Christmas season provides special opportunity to renew our commitment in meeting this challenge both now and throughout the coming year.
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