The Lord has blessed me with some very special friends. Sure, we all have acquaintances in our neighborhoods and workplaces, but true friends that go-the-distance with unity and emotional affection? They are treasures among all of life's blessings. I'm fortunate to have some friendships that span decades and sustained me this past year.
The word “friend” in friendship translates as “philos,” one of the most popular terms for love in the Roman world. C.S. Lewis famously talked about four loves, one of which was friendship. Friends voluntarily love one another and, through that love, grow in virtue. ECCLESIASTES 4:9 reminds us of the value of friends. "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor." I can think of no greater investment than time spent growing our friendships.
Which brings me to my question. How will you spend your summer? Will you find opportunities to nurture existing friendships and/or open yourself up to cultivating new ones? Like in a garden, we need to pay attention to the weeds or “distractors” that can choke out pleasure.
My prayer and challenge for each of us is to choose well. Listen to your inner voice and allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide you into times of refreshment this season.
If you need a listening ear and compassionate heart to help you bolster relational joy this summer, reach out to the CHRISTIAN COUNSELING CENTER at (203) 846-4626.
