Can We Be Friends?

So, we had a missions-focused dinner last weekend, followed by a small panel during the Sunday service. A simple, engagement of conversation that provided the congregation insight into their lives. Among the many points of discussion where things like calling and direction. Then they closed out the conversation with what they needed in terms of support.

Among the very first answers, if not the first...

Friends.

We've prayed to this end before, across the board, for pastors and church leadership and of course, missions. But to hear it first hand, naturally, reemphasized the importance and power of high-quality relationships. It's especially important in matters and circumstances where stakes are high on a daily basis and the work is, if you'll permit the play on words, "mission critical".

In light of eternity, that's true. And while it may not seem that way on a day-in an day-out basis, missionaries have daily struggles and issues they face as much as anyone else does, if not more. Thus, if we value great friends and quality time and conversation with them in the realm of our comfort zone, how much more is it important for missionaries who have, quite literally, been called out of their comfort zone.

Friends are hard to come by, at least, it seems that way at times. Conversely, if we were honest with ourselves, we couild point to times and seasons where we probably weren't in the best place to show ourselves friendly and thus, the connection was missed. And perhaps the opportunity for the miraculous to occur.

People come and go. Sometimes on purpose. Other times by default. And then there is a distinct and specific parting of ways. But like so much else in life, they begin and end by being and living intentional.

So let's pray this #missionsFriday, for those missionaries who are perhaps lacking in quality friendships, both where they minister and where they receive their support. Pray that God would give them the right connections and conversations to meet their needs, build them up and raise the quality of their life. Pray that God would give the clarity, to know who has come into their lives to be a blessing and encouragement, rather than a source of contention and discouragement. May they have a discerning spirit to know how to meet needs and invest in the lives of those they come in contact with on a daily basis. May God help us, as much as He helps them, that we may each be a better friend; contributing to make the lives of everyone around us better than we found them.

For God has never left us, nor forsaken us.
The great, friend of sinners.

- PNC