Coming and Going

I live in a culture where coming and going is quite natural.  No one stays in one place long.  Quite often it's every 2-3 years that we get reassigned and move from one part of the world to another.  But I have had the fortunate pleasure of doing it every 12 months and as often as every 6-8 weeks.

For now, I'm established.  My household effects should be here soon.  Someone even told me the other day my place is starting to come into itself, meaning I've been decorating.   But now, people all around me are coming and going.

Because I've been in their shoes a hundred times, I'm really trying to be inclusive of people visiting for just a short time.   I'm trying to get them out and about in town, well it's still relatively permissive to do so, go to the beaches, wineries, museums, restaurants, etc.   I know how it feels to be stuck in my hotel room or short term rental with no where to go, no one inviting me over for dinner, not understanding the lay of the land. 

Look around.  Do you see people like I just described?  In your neighborhood, at your place of work, at your children's school?   You encounter people each and every day - which one is feeling like a loner?  Which one is looking for a girlfriend or a guy pal to chat up about things going on in their lives?  Who is searching for just a shopping pal?  A gym accomplice?

If you are anything like me you're thinking: when in the world do I have time to start a new friendship, to take a new colleague under my wing, to ask that newly divorced parent to coffee?  When?  I have a job...a family...I volunteer at my kids school...I sing in the choir at church...My family and I help feed the homeless on Saturday mornings.   When am I going to find time to make another friend.  Besides, I have plenty of them.

Imagine yourself sitting home alone day in and day out.  Imagine being the new person in the office and not feeling like you fit in.  Think for a second being the only mom not included in a mom huddle while waiting for the kids to get out of school.  

I know you have someone who is at the forefront of your thoughts right now.  Someone God has been laying on your heart to reach out to, maybe even become friends with.   (GASP) Yes, friends with.  Be His hands and feet.   Extend mercy and grace to someone who may not even know what those words mean.   Have compassion, but not pity!  Imagine yourself in their shoes...what would you hope someone would do for you - then do it for someone who really does need it.

Put your pride and status aside and let God work through you.    He is Able!