now, that's a friend!

"Do not forsake your friend..." Proverbs 27:1

Thinking air condition is unnecessary in the mountains is a lie.  With the sweltering heat, a window fan only redistributed the stale, warm air in my son's apartment. Fortunately, my brother had a portable a/c unit.  Unfortunately, due to a long distance and demanding work schedules, getting the unit to the mountains was an uphill challenge. Thankfully, i was able to assist with this urgent "cool" mission. Sharing my plans with a friend, she quickly offered to ride with me.  And even though, the planned 7 hour round trip turned into an 11 hour marathon, due to accidents and road work, she never complained but remained joyously supported. Now, that's a friend!

Friendships are priceless.  They provide much love, joy, laughter and support to our lives. They can also add anxiety, grief and pain.  Is it worth it? Absolutely! In true friendships, our life is enriched from everything we experience together. It strengthens our relationship with them and God.  

Going out on a limb with and for friends, exhibits a richness in Fruit of the Spirit. It like biting into a peach, you already know will be good, but experiencing an unexpected intense sweetness instead.  It's the taste of unexpected sacrifice of self from another for your benefit. 

 Father, Thank you for friends, who go beyond the call of duty and willingly set aside their own comfort and agenda to help us. How sweet it is to love and be loved by You and others.  May  the fruit of the Spirit -- love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control -- be ever growing in bounty within us and poured out on others.

friend, we are loved and chosen by God,

veneal