Friendship - Go Deep

Sometimes close friendships can be viewed as exclusive. We've all been in a room where everyone else seemed to be on the "inside" while we were uncomfortably standing on the "outside" of a coversation or joke or just in general. As believers, we must be diligent to be inclusive. Meaning that everyone should feel important and valued by Christ followers.

I have a friend, John who is amazingly gifted at making whoever he is with feel as though they are the most important person in the room. He truly understands the value of every soul. I've been on the receiving end of this Christ-like friendship and I can only say, "wow". Without knowing it, he has been used by God to open my eyes to be more purposeful in acknowledging others and highlighting their immeasureable worth to God and others.

I also have a friend, Steven. Our friendship is deep and could be viewed as exclusive by some. However, depth in friendship does not necessarily mean exclusivity. Our friendship is deep for a reason. We've weathered disagreement, been very present for one another in times of need and have laughed thousands of laughs at the joys of life, together. I always go back to a point in my life that is by far the most painful. The day that we put my Dad in hospice care, I had to inform my dad that he would not be able to go home to our house for the hospice care, but would have to remain in the hospital. I was so, so grieved, because the thing dad wanted most was to just go home for his last days. I called Steven on the way to the hospital and shared with him the news I had to pass on to dad. I arrived at the hospital, confirmed the details, dad needed 100% oxygen and could only receive that care in the hospital. I walked up to the bed and began to weep, deep, deep sorrow and told dad the news. The last thing dad wanted on earth and I had no power to give it to him....I felt helpless and alone. Dad was so precious, he assured me, "Son, it will be o.k.". I turned to take a chair and there standing behind me was my friend Steven. He left work and came to be with me in my time of deep need. This kind of friendship cannot be quickly gained or manufactured or "put on". It comes with time and sincerity.

What I'm wanting to communicate is that we treasure close friendship, while at the same time placing great value and realizing the potential friendship that awaits us with each person we encounter in life.

Go Deep.

Darrel