Best Friends

I always try to share a little of my life with you and try to show that, no matter the circumstance, with God’s love, good will shine through. Last Sunday evening was time for our monthly “care group” gatherings. We don’t have a “formal” worship, but gather in small groups in homes and one group at the annex building of the church. I led the group at the annex with song and a lesson, and other men led the group in prayer. On these nights we also engage in story-telling fellowship, trying to get to know one another a little better on a personal bases, all the while snacking on some finger foods and cookies. Well, we cleaned up, locked up and said our good-byes in the parking lot as we usually do, and headed for home. Ten minutes later I heard the news of an auto accident and the death of one I sat and talked with for the last time. All I could think of was, were my last words with her godly and encouraging? Her presence will be missed.
Fred, a High School freshman, saw a kid from his class walking home from school. His name was Kyle. It looked like he was carrying all his books. Fred thought to himself, “Why would anyone bring home all his books on Friday? He must be a real nerd!” Fred had a big weekend planned so shrugged his shoulders and went on. Then Fred saw a bunch of kids run toward Kyle, knocking his books out of his arms and tripping him so he landed in the dirt. His glasses went flying, landing in the grass about ten feet away. He looked up and Fred saw this terrible sadness in his eyes and his heart went out to him. Fred jogged over to Kyle who was searching for his glasses. As Fred handed Kyle his glasses he saw a tear in his eye and said, “Those guys are jerks. Don’t let them get to you.” Kyle looked at Fred and said, “Hey, thanks.” There was a big smile on his face that showed real gratitude. Fred helped Kyle with his books and discovered Kyle lived near him. They never knew each other because Kyle had attended private school until now. Well, it was the beginning of a new and wonderful friendship as they talked and got to know each other that weekend. Fred helped Kyle carry all his books back to school on Monday and introduced him to many more soon to be friends. Four years later Kyle was valedictorian of the class and Fred calmly assured Kyle he would do just fine with his speech. Kyle cleared his throat and began, “Graduation is a time to thank all those who have helped you along the way thus far. Your parents, teachers, siblings, maybe a coach, but mostly your friends.” Fred sat in total shock as he heard Kyle telling the story of the day they had met and how that very weekend he had planned on killing himself. He talked of how he had cleaned out his locker so his mom wouldn’t have to do it later and was carrying all his stuff home. He looked hard at Fred and gave him a smile, “Thankfully, a friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.”
[Romans 8] I’ve gained a new sense of urgency to save those who are in danger of losing their spirit to the evil powers of this world. Am I seeing into their heart? Am I asking the right questions? Am I showing compassion as Jesus would? Am I being the friend they need? When death snags someone right out from your sight, time seems of the essence concerning lost souls. Lord, make me a servant. Send the lost and hopeless. Help me to understand that yesterday is history, tomorrow is your mystery, but today is a gift to be shared for your glory. Teach me to be a friend to someone in need, every day.