Back when I was pastoring in Hong Kong, I had a dear brother in Christ with whom I had only known for two or three years, but we quickly became close, even travelling to Japan with a group of brothers and sisters. Soaking in hot springs together as brothers allowed us to share honestly about life and our spiritual struggles. We both loved photography and frequently exchanged tips. I even invited him to be the official photographer on the day of my ordination as a reverend.
Sadly, a few years ago, he was diagnosed with a serious illness and later became bedridden. I still remember visiting him one last time at home before I left Hong Kong for the UK during the COVID-19 period. That would turn out to be our final meeting. Within half a year, he was called home to the Lord. When I heard the news, I was deeply grieved.
Looking back, I am still thankful for that last visit. We were able to pray, chat, and recall the Lord’s grace in our journey together. That memory reminded me once again that we are only sojourners on this earth. Fellowship with fellow believers is not something to take for granted—it is a precious gift. Every gathering, every conversation is an opportunity given by God. If we keep missing or neglecting them, there may not be a next time.
Since coming to the UK, I’ve often heard brothers and sisters say things like: “Life is busy—it’s hard to find time to build deep relationships,” or “There are so many people at church, but it doesn’t feel intimate. After the service, everyone just goes home.” Some have even gradually switched to attending only online, and over time, their faith journey becomes increasingly isolated.
Indeed, life abroad brings with it a different pace and culture, but that should not be an excuse for spiritual disconnection. True fellowship doesn’t just happen—it requires intentional participation from each of us. Don’t just wait to be invited. We, too, can take the initiative: to join, to care, to ask, to share, and to build one another up.
The Bible reminds us: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”(Hebrews 10:24–25)
Fellowship is not optional—it is an essential part of our spiritual life. If we truly believe that every brother and sister we meet has been placed in our lives by God to walk this journey together, how can we choose to walk alone?
Dear brothers and sisters, we are one family in the Lord. Perhaps you have not yet found your “Spiritual Friends”, but that doesn’t mean you never will. The key lies in whether we are willing to live in the moment and embrace fellowship. May we all learn to treasure each meeting, every heartfelt greeting, and every opportunity to pray for one another. These are indeed the blessings and grace the Lord has given to our church.
Rev Louis Yeung