Ever say goodbye to a friend knowing you may never see them again?
That is what happened again and again when my wife, Diane, and I served as summertime teachers overseas. Those we taught included university professors in one country and university students in another. We shared meals, played games, and enjoyed picnics. That, coupled with walks in the park and stops at ice cream venders, bonded us for life.
There were instances in which we reconnected with friends when we happened to return in subsequent years. These encounters provided great reunions and reinforced our love for each other.
We exchanged email addresses with only a few people. We did this to cut down on contacts because we never knew from one year to the next if we would return.
My wife got to know one student very well, and they exchanged email addresses. At the end of one three-line email, the student added a Bible verse without text: Philippians 1:3. In the New International Version, it reads:
“I thank my God every time I remember you.”
Although we may never see this person again, we know their faith is strong. Amen!
We have been blessed to have entertained former students in our home, where we played board games, enjoyed meals, and ate ice cream.
Scrapbooks filled with pictures remind us of the people we have met along life’s journey. When we look at the pictures, we thank God for his provision, and pray for our friends.
Is there someone you have been meaning to call? Do it. Take action to let them know you are thinking of them.
Join me as we pray for wisdom every day in the Wisdom Prayer Challenge.
