Knit Together

Knit Together

I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself.

Colossians 2:2

Knitting puts form to simple threads. Amish women knit items for their own families and often to sell. Knitting is not as popular as quilting or sewing, but there are still women who come together to encourage one another—to knit their hearts together—as well as to move needles through yarn.

Knitting is like the Amish community itself. The lives of the Amish are interwoven. An Amish man or woman could not live that lifestyle alone, but knit together, the Amish flourish.

Some time ago I was speaking with a banker who had worked with the Amish when she lived in their community. Amish men often came into the bank for loans. Although they had no credit and couldn’t put up collateral either, she was still able to give them loans. Why? Because they had one another. The men came to the bank with a simple certificate. It said the bearer was part of an Amish community. If he was unable to settle his debt, the community would cover any default. Many, many people had his back.

We may not live in an Amish community, but God has our backs. When we could not pay the debt of sin, God made sure we were covered: “He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins” (Ephesians 1:7).

There is no basis for pride when we are dependent on others. An Amish person cannot boast, “Look what I’ve done on my own!” Neither can we. True peace is knowing that God covered the debt we could never pay. Even more wonderful, Christ gave us Himself and His righteousness to wear—a garment knit from sacrifice and love.

Dear heavenly Father, thank You for having my back—for covering my sins with the blood of Your dear Son, Jesus. I could never pay the debt my sin requires. I’m thankful I don’t have to. Today I’m stepping out clothed in Christ. May I display His beauty to those in my community!