Can We Talk?

If we want our family and friends to feel they are a priority in our lives, we must regularly set aside time to invite them into our space.

There’s a limit to what we can do to protect those we love from what the world throws at them. But we can listen and help them sort out their thoughts and feelings—if we choose to make ourselves available when they need us.

Making yourself available to friends and family is a choice you need to make again and again—the choice to forge a deep connection with them. Become the confidant for your children, so that as they grow older, they will know they can come to you at any time.

Jesus modeled this throughout the Gospels. Immediate availability was the way He operated. He answered questions when they were asked. He made a point of going off alone with His disciples to provide them with focused attention. And often He did this over food. In fact, He gave the most strategic talks of His life as His best friends and most devoted disciples were filling their stomachs with warm food (what could be better than fish over an open fire?), and they sat listening to His wisdom as their ease and comfort opened their hearts.

We would do well, I think, to follow His example.

His Promises

Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

Tune your ears to wisdom,

and concentrate on understanding.

Sympathize with each other. Love each other as brothers and sisters. Be tenderhearted, and keep a humble attitude.