Loving Friends

And so, we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. John 4:16

Last night I went to an event I have not attended for over two years due to COVID and finally we were prepared to celebrate our get together. This was with my 30-year-old Bunco group.

We met at a friend's home who had prepared a wonderful meal for us. There were hugs and laughter and support for each other’s updates.

As the evening went on, I noticed that each person started to get more comfortable; laughter could be heard throughout the house. My heart was full as I enjoyed the wonderful sounds of an evening with friends. At the end, we planned the hosting for the remainder of the year. I drove home feeling so refreshed and I enjoyed the time spent with wonderful and dear friends.

It is unfortunate that sad events do happen in our lives but love and friendships always remain. Reconnecting those relationships is important and healthy for our spirit.  

When we are separated spiritually from those we love, either through our own decision or from uncontrollable events, it is painful and it hurts as we try to make sense of it.

This is life... and there are times when we have no control. But when we can finally come together and reunite it makes it sweeter and even adds an important element of that “special love”. You know, the kind that you did not realize how important it was until it was missed.  

 Jesus taught us to endure those times when we are separated either through death or by an event such as the pandemic. We are to be patient, be prepared and be prayerful for each other.  

Christ loves being united with us and He has taught us how to live for each other and for Him. If I was so excited to see my friends after this long separation, I can’t imagine what it will be like coming together in Heaven. In the meantime, we are to love, serve and bring others to Him. You know Jesus gets excited when meeting new friends and reuniting with old ones! Probably more than I was on the night I got together with my sweet friends.  

Friends

Heavenly Father: You designed us to be united with others and to not be alone. Friendships are to be nourished and cherished and through the teaching of Your Son, we are taught how to become a good friend. Thank You for that gift of love. AMEN.

Patti Tichonoff