The first friend I remember was Tommy Schmidt who lived on my street in Cahokia, Illinois. We went to first and second grade together. Friends come to mind from all the places we have lived. Who are your closest friends in the world? In our mobile society, friends come and go freely and frequently.
Paul loved his friends. At the end of his letter to the Romans, he makes a roll call. Near the top are Priscilla and Aquila. They once made tents together in Corinth. Their partnership in the gospel blessed his life richly. God used this husband and wife to bless him.
My friend John Baugh had a “Rogues Gallery” of people who had blessed his life. I found myself on his picture shelf when I arrived at Tallowood, long before I could have earned it. Surely this was a sign of grace. Sometimes, we fail to say thank you for fear of leaving someone out. Don’t let it happen. I asked Lavonia Duck for a picture of Roger. She sent one of the three of us. His seventeen year investment as my prayer partner has enriched my ministry. They remind me of Priscilla and Aquila. Where would we be without our friends? I don’t want to know. So until further notice, you are on my list!
