I just had a Facebook birthday. They are a lot of fun, aren’t they? Seriously, birthday love is a good reason
to be on Facebook!! I heard greetings from relatives, former students, my last boss, neighbors, and friends.
I’m old, so I have had plenty of time to collect friends. Most of them don’t live close by. The common
sentiment was, “I miss you!” The connections are strong. I’m embarrassed to admit that I have a box of old
letters and cards I’ve received through the years in our basement. You might think I’m a hoarder to keep
them, but I contend it’s ok to hoard reminders of these priceless long-distance friendships. They are “stones
of remembrance” to me of cherished gifts from my Heavenly Father. Some of the letters have survived for
over 50 years through moves and wet basements. They contain funny stories, encouragement, and tales of
heartache. Through our correspondence we nurtured those friendships. We took the time to reach out to
each other, to sort through our conflicting thoughts, to admit struggles, and to share triumphs—to talk about big and little things. The letters are tangible reminders of God’s provision of friendship for my heart to recall and cherish.
My friendship with Jesus is the same in many ways. He listens to me as I sort through my thoughts, admit
my struggles, and tell Him about big and little things. I laugh and cry with Him. (And I ask Him to help me
find my keys!) His Words are a constant reminder of His love for me. The distance seems huge since I can’t
see His face, but the parallels stop there. I never tell Him I miss Him!! He really isn’t distant—He promised
to never leave us or forsake us. This promise to us, His beloved children, is stated again and again in
different ways throughout the Bible. He told His disciples, “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of
the age.” (Matthew 28:20b) What a promise to cling to!! So, sisters, talk to Him. Share what is on your
heart, what frightens you, and where you have failed. Thank Him for the beautiful sunset and tell Him you
love Him. Nurture a friendship with Him. It’s a precious gift.
– Dede
Real Moms. Real Life. 