The Scripture ~The heart is delighted by the fragrance of oil and sweet perfumes, and in just the same way, the soul is sweetened by the wise counsel of a friend. Proverbs 27:9
The Voice Translation
The Spiritual Focus ~ “Friendship is born at the moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.’” C.S. Lewis
The Breath Prayer ~ Inhale, I Am – Exhale, a friend
The Devotion ~ On the 25th anniversary of the TV series “Friends” the actors announced they would not have a reunion but they would do something together in the near future. It was a welcome announcement for the many fans of “Friends.” When fans were asked why they loved the show so much, the overwhelming response was because of the relationships among the characters. The relationships of mutual respect and trust were something the fans hoped for in their own lives. In one episode a memorable scene depicting this kind of friendship was when Phoebe supports Joey as he was having a tough time by saying to him, “A promise between friends means never having to give a reason.”
Friendships are as important today as they were in Jesus’ day, as they have been throughout history. Friendsgiving is a relatively new practice that brings friends together for a meal. The gathering is around the time of Thanksgiving but not necessarily on Thanksgiving and common etiquette states that the meal varies from the traditional turkey dinner. The intention is to unite friends and celebrate friendships.
Yoga means “to yoke, or “to unite”. Yogis often make some of the best friends because they “yoke” what they learn about themselves on the mat with relationships they have in the world. Yoga teaches us to be self-compassionate so we can be more compassionate with others. Yoga gives us a technology to go deep, and in going deep, we experience the many expressions of something greater than self, our true God nature. One of those expressions is Jesus as friend.
Perhaps this week would be a good week to call a friend, be a friend or look for a new friend. Let your heart be delighted and your soul sweetened by a friend, without having to give a reason.
.
