Refreshing
That’s what it was. Not just my favorite restaurant, or Publix, or even the beach — it was the people.
Friends.
But, not just friends. Fellowship.
Fellowship with other followers of Christ fueled by the Holy Spirit.
You see, my husband and me are going through a faith battle. We have to trust God’s sovereignty with our son — His faithfulness with our boy.
And it’s hard. And sad. And scary.
When I had the opportunity to fly to Florida for a long weekend, I jumped on it.
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My friend, Miriam picked me up from the airport and we headed to Carrabba’s for dinner. Although we haven’t spent any length of time together for a few years, we picked up right where we left off. I knew my words and my tears were safe with her.
After that, we went to the store “Where shopping is a pleasure.” And it was.
That night I caught up with her husband, Carey and her grown son, Deric. Deric has autism and is one of my favorite people.
Saturday morning, we walked the beach and ate fish tacos at the Rockaway Grill. Miriam deposited me at my other BFF’s. Michael and Diane ordered takeout Chinese while we watched college football and I dozed on their white couch. We laughed and cried and prayed.
On Sunday, I visited the church I attended for over 30 years. I saw people I hadn’t seen in six-plus years. They shared hugs, kisses, encouragement, and I received sound teaching.
But my favorite part was that evening when I invited a few friends to Miriam’s. We laughed while recalling how we met. We cried about my son. And then we prayed.
Priceless. Encouraging. Heavenly.
Carey summed it up after everyone left when he said it was true fellowship. The Spirit that we all share brings us all together because of The Living Water. Jesus.
His name is sweet. His people are kind. His Words are true. I can trust Him — because His Spirit helps me. Because His Spirit works through others.
And it’s refreshing.
