A Friend Like You

Every time I think of you—and I think of you often!—I thank God for your lives of free and open access to God, given by Jesus. There’s no end to what has happened in you—it’s beyond speech, beyond knowledge. The evidence of Christ has been clearly verified in your lives. (1 Cor 1:4-6, MSG)

 Dear Friend,

If you are reading this, thank you.  Thank you for being there for me.  Thank you for walking through this life, which is sometimes hard, but very often contains more joy and blessing than I acknowledge.  You might be someone I talk or email with every day.  You might be someone I haven't met in person for years.  Or you might be someone I know only through social media.   Either way, we are family and I am so grateful for the ministry you've given - your heart and prayers.

When we moved to Trinidad and I started this blog, you were with us.

When we came back sooner than expected, you prayed us through.

When I was trying to figure out my voice as a writer, you kept reading.

When Sophia was diagnosed with cancer, you poured out love beyond measure.

As we went through her treatment, you lifted us up in prayer and bore witness to the Father's great mercies.

When she was declared in remission, you rejoiced with us.

As I walked through post-traumatic stress, you stood by me.

When I was ready to get up and try life again, you were there to give me a hand.

As our lives changed and evolved, you prayed and loved us through our various needs.  

Now, in a foreign country, you are my Church.  You and your love sustain me when I feel isolated and alone. 

You are the example of Christ to me - every day.  And it is my honor and pleasure to share in your life, to know someone like you; however that takes shape.

However our lives intersect, I am so thankful for you and I think of you often.  Like David and Jonathan, we are forever linked.  May the grace and peace of Our Lord, Jesus Christ, be made real in your heart, mind and spirit today.  May you demonstrate the power of His love for you to others and I look forward to the day, coming soon, when we will be able to worship Him face to face, together, forever.

Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord, saying, "The Lord is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever." (1 Sam 20:42)