Forever Friends in Christ

For awhile this morning, after reading about David and Jonathan's friendship, I couldn't see how this story applied to us today. As I prayed about it, the Lord seemed to bring this thought to mind -- the profound difference He makes in a friendship!

My memory unfolded several names of Christian friends with whom I felt a special bond -- a bond that surpassed friendships I had years ago in the world. Some of them I didn't know very long. And yet there was this close connection because of our relationship with Jesus.

I think of Fred Rey and Robin Grenville, two roommates in Ventura, California when I was a new believer. We would stay up late reading portions of C.S. Lewis books and discussing heaven.

The days at Harding in the early '80's came to mind -- when I was starting my training as a minister. One friend in particular was John Lloyd. He and I had a special kinship as the Lord awakened us both to the power of the gospel and the beauty of being free in Christ.

Then there was Memphis. At Harding Graduate School, God blessed me with Dave Hogan -- a fellow grad student who grew up on the mission field of Singapore. We actually had fun together learning to translating passages of Romans from Greek to English. He taught me so much about experiencing the joy of the Lord.

Then I go back to our three mission trips to Brazil. The times in the Christians' homes were extra special. Though there was a language barrier, there was that bond again. The bond that can only be created by the Holy Spirit.

And then I think of my bride of nearly 25 years. God has blessed Susan and me with a deep soul friendship. Although we've had our typical marital spats over the years, we've always really liked each other! It's a connection that only Jesus can bring.

Who has been a "Jonathan" in your life?

Jim