In the Pew

I'm sitting in the sanctuary of my church home. Jerry went with other folks to the cemetery to lay to rest a lovely women from our church. It's a cold and windy day, although the sun is shining bright.

Cancer took her life and now she is enjoying the Savior she longed for while here on earth. Times such as this usually give way to musings of your own life.

Since the beginning of November, I've had the joy of enjoying lunch with several of my friends during these months of Thanksgiving and Christmas. I gave thanks that we all have been fortunate to not have endured severe health issues so far. As you know, one second can change your life.

Friends have played a major role in my life. Family doesn't always provide healthy atmosphere for development and mine lacked warmth, affection, conversation and love during my growing up years. In early adulthood, through friends that I made, I learned what a loving family was like, and it showed me what I missed as a child.

My friends families weren't perfect, but underlying everything was the warmth, affection, conversation and love I didn't grow up with. I tried very hard to give love and affection when I had my own family, but I know I failed miserably in that and many other areas.
You can't choose your family, but you can choose your friends. I have been blessed overwhelmingly with the friends who came into my life. As some of you remember, I had a "Celebration of Friends" party for my 55th birthday. Sixteen ladies from all age groups in my life were in my living room for me to celebrate. It was, indeed, the best party of my life!

When I became a believer in Christ, I was born into the family of God. This family of friends helped me discover the trust and closeness one can know only through faith. I am honored to have so many friends that mentor, encourage, make me laugh, give wise counsel and love me.

These serious thoughts turn into a GIANT thank you to those friends that have have made a difference in my life. Although the dying of a sister in Christ brought these thoughts on, it's good to reflect on your own life. One day I look forward to when my soul joins Christ in heaven. There is no comparison in this life to the family I will live with through eternity--from nothing I've done; for all Christ has done!

Yes, sitting in the sanctuary has been good for my soul. It's a reminder that one day I will leave this earth and dwell in heaven. There, I will have my very best friend for all eternity, Jesus.