Friendship And Gratitude

LORD, yesterday I had lunch with a close friend I’ve known for many years. I treasure our rich and deep relationship. We are present for each other during happy times and sad times. We listen carefully to each other’s concerns, ask thoughtful questions, and pray that your will be done with the requests we bring to you. Sometimes it’s a while between the visits, but our ongoing prayers keep us connected until we can meet again. Each time, we immediately pick up where we left off, a hallmark of our bond.

Thank you for blessing me with such a relationship, Lord. Your Word teaches that a true friend sticks closer than a brother—a sibling. You have given me many “siblings” I consider dear friends. Better yet, I am privileged that you have called me your friend and your sibling. On the day you rose victorious from the grave, you said, “Go tell my brothers . . .” When I was born again, I was adopted into your family, and we now have the same Father God. Lord, thank you for my earthly friends and siblings. May I reflect your grace, truth, and kindness to each of them.