Resolution for Communion

Laura B. Nelson offers five strategies for leaving isolation behind in favor of a focus on connection.

Just a month ago we were all gathered together with family and friends celebrating the Incarnation of our Lord. Our lives were crammed full of special foods, special gatherings, and Christmas activities to entertain us.   

But only a few weeks later and the contrast is stark. The decorations are down, the days are short, and (typically) the temperatures are cold. We’re in the depths of winter without a special event in sight. It can feel isolating.   

Even though New Year’s Day is in the rearview mirror, it’s not too late to make a resolution, to make a fresh start.  

Focusing on Connection 

Typically, resolutions at this time of year center around health and fitness. But what if this year the focus was different? What if we focused on connection instead of improvement this year? What if we made a resolution for communion? 

“It is not good for the man to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18) 

God made man for communion. He created us with a desire to love and be loved, to know and be known, to connect with each other so that, ultimately, we can connect with God. But many of us feel alone and isolated, misunderstood and invisible. 

As adults, and especially as moms, there are so many demands on our time that it’s hard to prioritize time to cultivate and nurture old friendships or make new ones. But we are not made to be alone. We need each other. Which means, as much as you need a friend, there’s someone out there who needs you to be their friend. As much as you have a need, you are also needed. That’s the way communion works — it's a mutual self gift from one to the other. And when we give and receive in return, we embrace who we are in the eyes of God: beloved creatures. 

Resolution for Communion 

So, how can we make a “resolution for communion” this winter? How can we reach out from our isolation to become more connected to old friends and perhaps make some new ones? 

Be Intentional

We’re not kids anymore. We can’t assume that we can knock on our friend’s door and ask, “Can Mary come out to play?” We have to schedule our time and be intentional about it. Don’t know where to start? Make a list of old friends that you’ve neglected or lost touch with. Then schedule time on your calendar to text, call, or make a lunch or dinner date with them. If it helps, set a recurring reminder to check in until you establish a better pattern of communication with them. 

Communicate Often

In the digital age, we don’t have to rely solely on in-person meetings to stay connected with a friend. Sending a text, sharing a meme, or even recording a quick voice note can help you stay connected when your schedules don’t coincide. 

Practice Listening

Be the friend that you want for yourself. Listen openly and without judgment. Encourage your friends to share their life with you — the good, the bad, and the ugly. Don’t rush in to solve their problems. Just listen and validate them and their experience so that they feel seen and known by you. 

Practice Sharing

Sometimes we think we’re “being kind” to our friends by not “burdening” them with our vulnerabilities. Instead of helping our friend, we end up pushing them away in order to “protect them” from overwhelming them with our lives. But if we want to have a true friend, we need to let the other person into our heart and mind enough that they can truly know us.  

Share Experiences

It's not enough to just spend time together talking. Having shared experiences builds memories and bonds that help relationships grow. So, go on a hike together. Take a class. Learn a new skill. Or take a dance class together. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive, just try something new together and reap the rewards in your relationship. 

These are only a few suggestions. There are many other ways you could live out your Resolution for Communion this year. The point is, being isolated and alone isn’t what God intended for any of us. So, if you’re looking for a way to grow this year, consider strengthening your friendships and not just your muscles. 

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Copyright 2026 Laura B. Nelson
Images: Canva