Spiritual Friendship

Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5: 18-21 (NRSV)

For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them." Matthew 18:20 (NRSV)

Yvette War Bonnet lives in Washington. In 2009, her friend, Michelle and Yvette had the opportunity to attend a Walk to Emmaus spiritual retreat. The experience was filled with community-building, worship, and Bible study. They did not want to lose their excitement about their faith when they returned home, so Michelle and Yvette started to meet once a week. They studied different materials and books over a cup of coffee and breakfast.

Eight years after they began their weekly ritual, Michelle moved across the country. Yvette worried that this would make it difficult to continue their special friendship. Yvette had always interpreted Matthew 18:20 as Jesus asking us to meet in person when we study and worship. But meeting virtually with Michelle has taught Yvette that you do not have to be in the same room for the Lord to be with you. all you have to do is join your hearts and minds together.

While they can no longer share a meal at the same table, they continue to share details of their lives and encourage each other in their faith journeys by discussing The Upper Room, hymns, and books. Their relationship is one that Yvette cherishes.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of spiritual friendships. For those of us with this type of friendship, bless these relationships. For those of us longing for a friend, please put the right people in our life, in Jesus' name. Amen.