You Got a Friend in me?

People come and go but friends can impact each other in one moment or for a lifetime.

As I open the door to my favorite coffee shop, the brisk, frigid winter air swirls subzero for a moment. I am warmed by the smiling friendly faces of my breakfast buddies; the two baristas.

I am welcomed by the sweet voice of the two women baristas. We share morning greetings. I am humbled as we have moved past pleasantries as long as the customers are not behind me. As time has progressed, the lovely ladies see me coming and have my favorite coffee drink ready to go.

The coffee shop is my writing environment. I anticipate my reserved table after school drop-off. I seek the Lord for His pearls of wisdom to flow from my fingers onto the computer page.

These young women and I have begun to share personal stories. One single mom and barista is blessed with an elementary school daughter. I have been asking the Lord if he wants our friendship to deepen.

Recently, she revealed being raised in a Christian home but stepping away from her parents’ religion. I truly understood this path. I reminded her Jesus loves you, always has, and always will. I said, “He will use every life step for a new graceful loving relationship but we have to seek Him, Jesus is grace-filled and loving”. She responded, ” Yes, I think you are right, I wasn’t raised to a relationship with Jesus, just religion. “

Psalm 25:12-14 NLT

[12] Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose. [13] They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the land. [14] The LORD is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant.

Friends join our lives in many ways and from many environments. Sometimes, they are friends of friends or being a mom whose kids are in extracurricular activities or sports, a coworker with common interests, or even a stranger who becomes a little sister such as the barista at the coffee shop!!

Thank you, Lord, for expanding my friend group. Today’s conversation was seasoned in love as we shared a common experience as moms in a crazy worldview time.

May the three-stranded cord of our relationship with Jesus grow into a rich mentorship. We can learn from others even those generations removed. In fact, I feel blessed that I am allowed to speak any words to this sweet young mama. May my words be good advice and encourage her as the Lord encourages me. There may be someone whose path you cross that may need a friend. Ask the Lord to help you take a step of faith, your life journey can bring hope to another.

Proverbs 12:26 NLT
The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray.

Proverbs 17:17 NLT
A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.