“The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.” –Proverbs 27:9 (NLT)
We are in Denver this week for a 3-day volleyball tournament. For the teammates and parents alike, it is a beautiful time of bonding. In addition, the girls are playing hard against amazing teams from around the United States, improving their skills, and encouraging one another. Teamwork.
A note of sadness for our team is the fact that one of our coaches is not here with us this weekend. A recent cancer diagnosis means she is unable to finish the season with the team as she begins her health battle. The girls carry her with them on the court by proudly wearing their pink warm-up shirts, scrunchies, and socks. Many of us hold her in our prayers as well. Teamwork.
In addition, God sent me a love note this weekend in the form of my dear friend Carrie and her husband, Larry. Carrie and I did not plan for their anniversary trip to Denver to coincide with our volleyball tournament. But God did! Bill and I were able to sneak away for a quick lunch with these cherished Wisconsin friends. It was a lovely time of laughter and relaxation. How wonderful to spend time in person with someone who has known me so long and so well. How refreshing to get to hug one of my beloved prayer partners again. Teamwork and the sweet perfume of friendship.
“For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there I am with them.”
Matthew 18:20 (NLV)
God knows how much we humans need each other. He knows we need the prayers of our brothers and sisters in Christ. He knows the strength provided through the encouragement of friends. Just as Aaron and Hur held up the hands of Moses in the battle at Rephidim (Exodus 17), our faithful friends hold us up when we have no strength of our own. They rejoice with us in the happy times and cry with us in the painful moments. Teamwork.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT)
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the friends and teammates you have placed in my life. I appreciate their wise counsel, encouragement, and prayers. Please help me to be a friend as well to those in need. Amen.