An Old Friend

A old friend surprised me today with a phone call.  We first related to one another as pastor and church member and then after a move to another church, it became a relationship that spoke of friendship.  For over 40 years now we have stayed connected to one another.  Sometimes that connection was nurtured more than at other times, but always enough that it was sustained.  Today's call came after several months of not hearing from one another.  It was truly one of the best gifts of the Christmas season.  

 

Sometimes we forget that friendship is such a precious gift.  I will remember those moments on the phone, hearing this voice that has touched my life for decades, and being reminded of his daily prayers in my behalf long after any other gift given during these days.  It is the kind of gift we can all give.  No money is necessary.  The only cost is a little time.  People are hungry to know they are remembered.  People want to know their life is still valued by others.  People want to know the emotional warmth which comes from the loving and caring touch of a friend.

Perhaps, there is still a gift for us to give before the Christmas season is too far in the past.  Think for a moment about those who might feel forgotten.  Think of those who might feel that no one cares for them or even remembers their name.  Think of those who have been called friend in days past, but who have disappeared from view because of our pre-occupation with being busy.  Think for a moment and then make a decision to reach out again to someone who has been a blessing in your life, but hardly feels blessed at all.  As we have been blessed, let us be a blessing in the name of Christ.