“And all those who had believed were together, and had all things in common; 45 and they
began selling their property and possessions, and were sharing them with all, as anyone might
have need. 46 And day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread
from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of
heart, 47 praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their
number day by day those who were being saved.”
(Acts 2:44-47)

One of the pictures we see from the very beginning of the church was how intentional
they were about their relationships with one another. They were devoted to studying
together, worshipping together, spending time together, helping each other—
they were committed to living life together. That’s the way God designed it, that we
as God’s people would form and strengthen deep, meaningful relationships with one
another.

The Redwood trees, pictured on the front of this book, can grow as tall as 35 story
buildings. You would think that a 350 foot tall tree must have deep roots, but that’s
not the case. The roots are very shallow, but they extend outward, up to 100 feet
from the trunk. The roots intertwine and even form together with those from neighboring
trees. They don’t survive alone—they stand strong together. It’s such a beautiful
illustration for what ought to exist here—that we are a people who stand tall and
strong, side by side, linked in our common love for the Lord and love for each other.
The Shepherds would like to encourage each of us to make this year a year of deepening
and strengthening our relationships with each other. May this theme encourage
and inspire us to be more invested and involved in each others lives. May our
love, care, and devotion to each other, and ultimately to the Lord, grow and
flourish as we focus this year on living, “day by day together.”

Campbell Road Focus 2025