Old Friends

Thirty one years ago God gave me a bosom buddy. Rosemary and I walked with each other through the frustrations of our latter teen years, encouraged each other through the ups and downs of our Christian walk and spent many happy hours together enjoying our friendship as well as the fellowship of our youth group. She was my maid of honour almost twenty five years ago and I was one of her bridesmaids eighteen years ago.

As often happens, the paths of our lives, our moving out of the area for several years and the busyness of work and family led to less and less contact. Even so, we each held a special place in the other's heart. It was good to know that no matter how long it was between phone calls or visits, we could always pick up where we left off. Till you get to the point where that's just not good enough any more.

Yesterday our families got together. We caught up on the news of each family plus that of sisters, brothers and mutual friends. We had a wonderful visit filled with laughter and reminiscing. As we parted we made plans to get together again soon; no more lengthy periods between contact - and I hope we can make that happen.

As we cleaned up I had time to think about how thankful I am for the people God has brought into my life. For the time we have journeyed together, being Ecclesiastes 4 friends - you know the kind...

The Value of a Friend

⁹ Two are better than one,
Because they have a good reward for their labor.
¹⁰ For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.
But woe to him who is alone when he falls,
For he has no one to help him up.
¹¹ Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm;
But how can one be warm alone?
¹² Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.
And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

For the contributions we have been able to make to each other's lives. For the memories we have of God's faithfulness to us over the years of our friendship. For the support of someone who loves God and is committed to His purposes and plans.

I'm so very glad that God understands the human heart and knows our need for companionship and I am thankful to Him for providing me with that companionship.

To all my friends - new and old alike -

I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3