Close Connections

"There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship."  Thomas Aquinas

Four of our dear friends had a five-hour layover at an airport near our home as they returned from an international mission trip. These wonderful people have been part of our lives for 30-40 years. An airport coffee shop provided the simple setting to swap stories, new and old, and renew the bonds that we have shared for decades.

Cay and I left refreshed by their encouraging words, family stories, news from home, and updates from their mission trip. But more than the information, we were heartened by their willingness to fight through travel hassles and jet-lag to make time for us.

Friends are that way; their presence refreshes our souls as much as their words encourages our hearts. Paul sent Titus to encourage the Corinthians church and the benefit was mutual . “In addition to our own encouragement, we were especially delighted to see how happy Titus was, because his spirit has been refreshed by all of you.” (2 Corinthians 7:13)

The Christian life has personal and relational components. Friendships are essential to the Christian life. Make friends, value friends, encourage friends and nurture life-long friendships. The journey is long, and we need others every step of the way.