Two Fellows on a Ship

There’s one undeniable fact about a ship’s passengers. Together, they are headed in the same direction. That’s why I think fellowship can also mean friendship.

Today I shredded an old church directory but the introductory statement caught my attention: “This is not a “Church Directory” or a “Family Directory” in the traditional sense, but a “Friendship Directory.” The goal has always been to make it easy for people to connect in positive ways . . . encouraging one another . . . helping one another . . . praying for one another . . . always building up the Body of Christ.”

I also reviewed the closing statement: “As you reach out to one another may “the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit” (Philippians 4:23, NIV) as you continue to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3, NIV).

I can’t imagine life without friends. As a child I took to heart this verse: “A man that hath friends must show himself friendly” (Proverbs 18:24 (KJV). This proved to be true in school, at work, and in church. I would also remind you, when it comes to friendship, don’t discount family.

My recent fall required surgery and 24/7 home care for nearly eight weeks. It not only made me appreciate the value of friendship, but I realized you don’t create meaningful friendships overnight.

Before my fall, I made weekly luncheon appointments with friends. I never dreamed I would need their physical and moral support on a deep level later, but I thank God for each one. I’ve asked Him to bless them in ways that mean the most to each of them.

Each friend is enjoyable because of their unique interests and character traits. Day and night we were two fellows on a ship. I believe our journey succeeded because we followed the church directory advice to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Close fellowship can’t help but cause some stress. My friends learned new things about me and I about them, but by God’s grace we kept the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. I’m grateful for that.