What’s most important to remember this week?

We have much to be thankful for, seriously. In spite of the challenges of 2020, and there have been many, stop and count your blessings. Which is a popular practice this time of year, with Thursday being Thanksgiving, right? 

There is a common tradition I have witnessed over the years, at different locations and with groups other than family. Once the group has gathered for the grand meal of turkey and trimmings, each person shares one thing they are thankful for. The list typically includes several things that start with the letter “F,” such as family, food, fall, football, fellowship and friends.

So, what’s at the top of your list? This year I am focusing on the blessing of friends. From “The Art of Worldly Wisdom,” written in 1647 by Spanish philosopher Balthasar Gracian:

“There is no desert like living without friends. Friendship multiplies the good of life and divides the evil. It is the sole remedy against misfortune, the very ventilation of the soul."

This quote echoes advice I received from a mentor and friend 35 years ago during a family crisis. I was serving as a mission intern in Thailand when the news arrived of a crisis in my family. I had made a two-year commitment, therefore did not know if I should stay put or return home. I can still hear the words that Kelly Davidson shared with me, “God gave us family to celebrate the good times, as well as to get us through the tough times. I think you need to be with your family.”

I have never regretted the early return to be with family and I am thankful for Kelly’s wise counsel. His example made a lasting impression and helped me place an even higher value on family and friendship. In particular, being a friend and investing time to maintain a lasting friendship.

Another quote from Gracian, "To keep is more important than to make friends. Select those that will wear well; if they are new at first, it is some consolation they will become old…”

Be thankful for your friendships and let them know this week. And if it’s been a while since you’ve been together, work on a visit in person. But at the very least, contact your closest friends and say “thanks for your friendship.”

One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Solomon, Proverbs 18:24).

Thanks for your friendship as a fellow Kingdom Warrior and Happy Thanksgiving!