Friends are like that

I hung out with a friend today - and we were both not at our best - but I left feeling encouraged. I've been rather "blah" lately, and took my blah self to her house. She's been rather busy lately, and her kids were having a "Mommy's tired so I'm going to be more needy," day. Together, we visited, chased kids, ate snacks, resolved kid disputes, prayed, made lunch, cleaned up, and separated for nap time. And I'm a better person for the time spent together. Friends are like that. It's o.k. to not be o.k. And sometimes just being friends makes not o.k. feel o.k.

Another friend took the time today to tell me what I've meant in her life over the years. A long, detailed, loving facebook message to say I'm a gift of God in her life. I can't tell you how much that touched the "blah" spot in my heart and started to bring a thaw. Friends are like that. God, through His Spirit, can tell us that He loves us. But when He sees that we're not getting it, He chooses one of our friends to put skin on His words and say, "NO, I really mean it, I LOVE you! I'm crazy about you! I'll pursue you to the ends of the earth and beyond because you are my BELOVED." And my heart is warmer than it was this morning.

Another friend e-mailed to say she was praying for me this weekend. I've got a big gig with the kids worship choir and she, being my friend who pays attention to details, remembered and shot me a quick note. That encouraged me, and gives me strength to face the 75 children who need to be herded into the right spot so that they can lead our church in worship. I love those children, and I know they are powerful in the spiritual realm, yet to be the adult in charge is hard work. And my friend noticed. Friends are like that, they notice details and give encouragement at just the right times.

Some of my friends I haven't seen or talked with in a long time. This season of life has me more with my kids and within the four walls of my house than ever before. Sometimes I feel like I'm neglecting women I love. But life is what it is and I can only do what I can do. And I love that my friends know that I love them, and when we're able to connect, it will be good. Friends are like that, they can pick up where they left off no matter how long or how far it's been.

I need friends. I have friends. I'm so grateful to God for friends. Thanks for being one of them.

Jen :)