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Friends are God’s Way of Taking Care of Us
I searched for an illustration or a story that might convince someone of the vital importance of growing relationships with other Christians. I thought, “Where will I find a quote or illustration that sums up the impact relationships have had as I have grown in my faith?” I sought help from the web and considered books in my library. At the time I was ready to give up, I came across this thought from C. S. Lewis:
Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, “What! You, too? I thought I was the only one.”
Somehow, Lewis sums up for me the importance of vital relationships in the church. I think it’s easy to feel alone in our spiritual journey. Although I might have lots of friends and acquaintances in the church, it’s still challenging to open up, share what’s on my heart and mind, and reach out to others. I know that I should. I know it would help me. Yet, it’s hard to do. When I don’t share my journey with others, the result can be a sense that I’m alone, that I should be able to handle things better like other people, and that I need to put on an outward expression that everything is OK to cover up what’s really going on inside.
This hasn’t always been the case. I remember a time when I felt a sense of relief and immediate connection when I talked with a man who’s wife was pregnant with twins. At the time, I was fearful and worried about how my wife and I would handle twin boys along with our other three girls. I was unsure, anxious, and feeling like no one understood. That is, until I spoke with this father who was expecting twins. When I heard him express some of my own worries and fears, I thought, “What! You, too? I thought I was the only one.” Somehow, knowing that there were other parents with twins who worried whether or not they could handle it, gave me the strength I needed.
Can this be the same experience for us in our Christian community? I believe so. The more we are able to see that we are not alone; that others have experienced worries and anxieties while dealing with life’s unexpected challenges; that someone else struggles with certain passages of Scripture or unanswered prayer or parenting issues, the stronger we feel that God will provide all the love and care we need.
As I got some of our Christmas Tree ornaments out, I came across a mug that was given to us. On it are these words: Friends are God’s way of taking care of us. I took the mug in my hands and smiled. No truer words have ever been spoken, especially as we consider the importance of relationships with others at Grace. It is our connections with others – when we feel like we’re not alone – that we feel the gentle touch of God’s encouraging presence. What a great gift from God!
I urge you to make an effort to connect with another brother or sister in the Lord. Consider a small group, Bible study or a ministry team as God’s invitation for you to experience His care. Try it out and then see if your experience with God’s grace is just a bit deeper.
In Him,
Pastor Mark