We All Need A Jasmine

If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.

Glancing at Lizzie as she slid into the front seat, I said, “So . . . we have to run to the grocery store before we head home to celebrate your birthday.”

“Hmm. Does that mean Jon and Daddy are still decorating? You’re stalling, aren’t you?”

“Busted!” Grinning mischievously, I told my daughter a half-truth. “We ran into trouble because there is a helium shortage. They’re blowing up balloons manually, and it’s taking a bit more time than we expected. So let’s give them just a little longer.”

While Aaron and Jon were manually inflating balloons, the full story was that Lizzie’s dear friend Jasmine was in our house, putting the final touches on a surprise birthday tea party. And while the balloons were taking longer than expected, my primary concern was giving Jasmine a little extra time to finish her preparations.

When we walked into our house thirty minutes later, the delighted surprise on Lizzie’s face as she took in Jasmine’s efforts—including a beautifully set tablescape—was worth the slight subterfuge and the last-minute errands.

But what makes Jasmine a truly wonderful friend is the loving, godly advice she gives Lizzie—even in the midst of these teen years. She listens carefully, and then, instead of saying what she thinks Lizzie wants to hear, she tells her the truth, wrapped in love. I’m grateful that she gives Lizzie a safe space to process ideas and feelings out loud while being brave enough to disagree when she senses Lizzie is believing a lie about herself or others.

We all need a Jasmine, a friend brave and bold who loves us enough to gently hold us accountable and speak up when we are venturing away from the best God has for us. And we need to be that kind of friend for others, willing to reach out with help when we see a loved one floundering.

Julie

Today’s Act of Gratitude

Send a note of thanks to someone who has been lovingly honest with you at the risk of making you frustrated or angry. Prayerfully consider who might need the same from you.