“Portrait of a Friend”
I can’t give solutions to all of life’s problems, doubts,
or fears. But I can listen to you, and together we will
search for answers.I can’t change your past with all its heartache and pain,
nor the future with its untold stories.
But I can be there now when you need me to care.I can’t keep your feet from stumbling.
I can only offer my hand that you may grasp it and not fall.Your joys, triumphs, successes, and happiness are not mine;
Yet I can share in your laughter.Your decisions in life are not mine to make, nor to judge;
I can only support you, encourage you,
and help you when you ask.I can’t prevent you from falling away from friendship,
from your values, from me.
I can only pray for you, talk to you and wait for you.I can’t give you boundaries which I have determined for you,
But I can give you the room to change, room to grow,
room to be yourself.I can’t keep your heart from breaking and hurting,
But I can cry with you and help you pick up the pieces
and put them back in place.I can’t tell you who you are.
I can only love you and be your friend.
–Unknown
God’s love is unmeasurable. He loves us unquestioningly. He forgives us when we disappoint or fail Him, but He continues to love us.
…and this is what God wants us to do as well…love one another without question and without discrimination. Love everyone as your friend and neighbour.
2 Corinthians 13:11-14 (The Message)
And that’s about it, friends. Be cheerful. Keep things in good repair. Keep your spirits up. Think in harmony. Be agreeable. Do all that, and the God of love and peace will be with you for sure. Greet one another with a holy embrace. All the brothers and sisters here say hello.
The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.
The Distinct Dot 