People tell me their life stories in line at the supermarket. Maybe I have that familiar face or remind them of their mom.
So, it was no surprise when an acquaintance mentioned regretfully that they had not been in touch with many friends for twenty years since they had just moved from another state. I nodded. That made sense to me. Lack of proximity dampens friendships or ends ones that never entirely took root.
Social media makes it easier to remain in contact without much effort. It’s not like we need to write letters, buy stamps, and stomp off to the post office to snail mail someone who has moved. Social media and unlimited phone plans cut the cost of sustaining long-distance friendships. But even with all our always-on technology, not having regular interaction tends to cool relationships.
I am fortunate to have good friends—some of whom I have known for forty-plus years. A few friendships go back as far as grade school. For their sake and mine, I won’t say how long ago that might have been. Some of these gracious friends have chosen to pick up where we left off, reconnecting after prolonged absences brought on by changes in our respective lives.
It struck me that my longest friendship is my relationship with Jesus—the Friend who sticks closer than a brother. Like my kind earthly friends, He is always there, ready to pick up where we left off. But I know that I do better when my connection with Him is regular, deep, and more than a text conversation. I have the ultimate Friend no matter where I live, what circumstances may change, or how many times I move.
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. This verse reminded me how much I need to cultivate my friendship with Christ by spending more time in His Word and praying daily. I should also share my forever Friend with my new acquaintances as the Lord allows.
God will amaze us with how simple interactions can lead to deeper reflection and greater revelation. Keep listening while you stand in line.
Susan A. Black was published in the world of financial services early in her career while still in college. She now looks forward to writing on the more creative and inspirational side of things, pursuing the dream she has had of becoming a writer since she was twelve.