CARING OVERCOMING CRUELTY

•    border blockage causes tension, injury
•    Jesus broke down wall; Holy Spirit given to indwell us

FEELING THE CONNECTION

•    awareness: Father & Jesus shown to us
•    loved by God: demonstrated at cross
•    joy: Jesus’ joy complete in us
•    companionship: God “at home” with us; Spirit of sonship

FOSTERING THE CONNECTION

•    have Jesus’ commands: read His Word
•    accept God’s pruning / discipline - catharsis
•    keeping Jesus’ commands: obey / submit in action

FRUIT FLOWING FROM THE CONNECTION

•    much fruit: fruit of the Spirit
•    ask for God’s supply, so He’s glorified
•    love one another: Jesus’ “new” command; shows we’re His disciples

TAKEN UNDER WING FOR GOOD

•    “Bob” gently encouraged Thom when became disillusioned with church’s imperfections
•    learned to love the local church, warts and all