Friend. Best friend. Real friend. Mutual friend. Faithful friend. Loving Friend. Forgiving friend. Present friend. Died-for-you friend. Personal friend.
I am blessed to have a handful of close friends scattered around the country and the globe. We are there for each other, to celebrate the wins and to feel during hard times, as well as all the random everyday things that pop-up. The time zones make it tricky sometimes, but we work around them. Messages or voicemails left in the middle of the night are seen or listened to in the morning. We have long-distance movie dates as well as long-distance hot drink dates via WhatsApp.
We all know that for thriving relationships, we need to invest in them and make time for each other. It seems easy when you can see the person physically. However, social distancing has made us more creative to connect with loved ones we can’t be with at the moment. And this has made me realise that spending quality time with Jesus is something I actually look forward to, instead of feeling guilty and “having to”.
Jesus is the ultimate friend. I can talk to him anytime. He gets me. He knows my love languages. He has an amazing sense of humour. I often have coffee dates where I journal – as I would talk to a friend. It is a nice and cosy way to spend time with Him. Time zones are blurred and He’s always there. Jesus is on call – whether I’m driving to work, waiting for brownies to finish baking in the oven or laying awake at 3:48 am. I find great comfort in that.
Jesus is a heart-listener. Jesus is also the best giver of virtual hugs…
I have felt it twice, after two separate breakups. One was on a beach walk in a slight drizzle. I’d stopped to watch the moody ocean colours and to feel the seafoam on my feet; Jesus himself was hearing my heart, feeling my pain with me. My hair was damp from the raindrops and curlier from the sea salt. At one point I felt as if someone tall was standing behind me and wrapping strong and safe arms around me for a few seconds. It was amazing. I wanted time to stand still.
Some people have heard Jesus’ voice. I felt Him.
So yes, to me Jesus is definitely personal.
WRITER: Jennifer Appadoo, attends Morphett Vale SDA Church (SA)