Believe And Receive - A night at the BAR

My very best friend from high school called yesterday afternoon to make sure I had seen the Facebook post. One of our friends is home for Thanksgiving and invited everyone to meet her at a bar in Oswego at 8 p.m. “Do you want to go?” I had a choice to make, sit home and work on my presentation or go to the bar and reminisce with high school friends. Hmmm….??

With make-up applied, hair styled, and my boots zipped -- I kissed my hubby on the cheek and went out the door singing, “These boots were made for walking”. My teen daughter laughing at my silliness while she repeated “Mom, I can’t believe you are doing this” multiple times. All I could do was smile. It has been years since I made myself presentable after supper and I was tickled at my daughter’s shock.

Why did I venture to the bar on a Friday evening you might ask? No it wasn’t for a last minute Black Friday sale but to share a hug, prayer, and hope.  The friend we met out is battling one of the biggest battles she will fight – breast cancer.  In between treatments and visiting her family she set aside time to reacquaint herself with her friends of past, in person.

Although we keep in touch via Facebook and email, my heart warmed at the idea of giving her a real hug instead of a virtual one. I will be the first to admit I enjoy Facebook and keeping in touch with my friends and family of afar, and even in the next town BUT nothing can replace the joy, love, and hope experienced when you are face to face.

There was much laughter and memories shared along with some quiet time of conversation. My prayer as I drove into Oswego, “Dear Lord, let me be a light for You, expressing your love to my dear friend. Don’t let the tears flow but instead let laughter lead our time together. Use me as you will. Amen.” It was during the quiet of conversation that God blessed me abundantly. As I listened to my friend share her struggles, accomplishments, and thoughts as my heart was uplifted and encouraged.

I anticipated and looked forward to seeing my friends from high school. I was grateful for the opportunity to share a hug with a friend fighting to survive yet as I drove home – I was overcome with thankfulness and love. Her words were and still are today…a blessing to me. I pray she knows how much of an encouragement she was to me. Thank you!

The king rejoices in your strength, LORD.
   How great is his joy in the victories you give!  
You have granted him his heart’s desire
   and have not withheld the request of his lips.
You came to greet him with rich blessings
   and placed a crown of pure gold on his head.
Psalm 21: 1 - 3