Bonhoeffer 3

In this week’s reading of Bonhoeffer’s Life Together, the beginning of chapter 3 stuck out to me. It talks about the balance of community and solitude.

This section hit me specifically, as I typically “fly solo.” I have never been an extrovert. This does not mean I don’t like people, but rather I do not enjoy social interaction as much as other people do. God has wired everyone unique and different.

However, this chapter raises a question to me. While we are all created differently, should we all seek balance? Is part of the human journey, which includes seeking to become a better individual, does that include seeking a balance between solitude and fellowship?

From a Christian view, fellowship in the church is fantastic. However, it can be a vessel to avoid personal reflection. A balance must be struck.

In the same way, solitude is fantastic. It allows for time with God on a personal basis, and for personal thought. However, it can lead to less accountability. A balance must be struck.

For me, I must seek towards the balance of the two. As a highly introverted person, I find that I would error on the side of too much solitude. However, this balance must be struck. In my case, this is done simply by finding ways to fellowship more with others.

I would encourage anyone who reads this to evaluate where they are with fellowship versus solitude and consider how that affects their walk with God.