Kindred Spirits

Kindred Spirits

Naomi And Ruth, Mary And Elizabeth

Read: Ecclesiastes 4:7-12

During the darkest time of my life, one friend especially went out of her way to reach out to me. In the winter, I accompanied Kathy on an overnight trip when she had a teachers’ conference. In the spring, she unexpectedly received two concert tickets and invited me to go with her. In the summer, she planned a picnic for our families. In the autumn, we enjoyed our usual trip to a fall festival. My friend for all seasons made sure that I had some good times even during the bad ones.

We all need a friend who is willing to share our good times and our bad times. When Naomi lost her husband and both sons, her daughter-in-law’s loyalty and friendship gave her courage and strength to face an uncertain future (see Ruth 1). Instead of traveling the road back to her native country alone, Naomi had the joy and comfort of a companion. Since Ruth had come to believe in God, she and Naomi were kindred spirits.

A few days after the angel announced to Mary that she would give birth to the Messiah, Mary went to visit an older relative (see Luke 1). Elizabeth had also miraculously conceived a baby, whose birth had been announced by an angel. What a comfort Mary and Elizabeth must have been to each other during their three-month visit, as they shared their joy, their hopes, and their anxieties.

God designed us to enjoy relationships that offer mutual help and encouragement. Having a close friend to share the times of our lives eases our burdens and increases our joys. With today’s fast-paced and often transient lifestyles, it can be difficult to develop friendships. Many people live with feelings of alienation and loneliness because they lack companionship. God wants us to discover the joy of sharing life with a kindred spirit.

Two people are better off than one.

Ecclesiastes 4:9