A Friend

I have a dear friend. (Ok, I have more than one, but this is about one in particular)My dear friend loves old cars and trucks. He drives around in a classic Nova as his every day driver. When the grandkids are in the car he has a rule that the windows have to be down because it's cooler that way.Last year he bought an old pickup and fixed it up to sell it. In the interim he drove it all the time. His granddaughter rode away in it following the reception. Though the truck is sold now, when I see similar trucks, I can't help but think of him and his love of an old Chevy.At the car show on Saturday, I saw a truck similar enough it made me stop and smile. I snapped a quick picture to send to him, wishing he could have been there to see it with me.My dear friend is on an adventure right now. He and his wife are in another country pursuing all that God has for them, learning to die to themselves and love those in their path even greater. They are setting an example for their kids, grandkids, and friends to never quit in the pursuit of God, because he never quits on us.I miss my friend. I look forward to he and his bride being home again. God has given this world friendship as a great and wonderful gift. I must admit, I don't always value my friends the way I should. As an introvert, I am content with aloneness, and forget my need to nurture the relationships I have and create new ones.My dear friend reminds me of the value of people. He sets an example in the way he loves me and others.Today, is there a friendship you need to renew? A relationship to deepen? Or maybe there is someone who needs you to be that friend, to challenge them and encourage them the way my friend encourages and challenges me.Father, give me wisdom to invest in good friendship. Friendship that draws me nearer to you. Let me be an encouragement to the friends I have, and show me those who need me to be a friend.By His Grace, For His GloryShaun