Today’s reading describes the friendship between David and Jonathan – the shepherd boy and the son of the king.  A friendship that was unusual.  Noteworthy.  One of a kind.

 

In my experience, it is not as unusual to see this type of friendship between two women – I think females just tend to be more relational.  However when two guys have a close platonic friendship, it is something to notice.  It reminds me of my husband Norm and his grade-school buddy Pat.  I love hearing them chat on the phone, talking about “guy things”:  reliving their childhood exploits of swinging from rooftops and playing with fire (literally) in rural Vermont, talking about their newest vehicle or tech-y gadget, or just the day-to-day activities going on in their lives (like the latest home improvement project or things going on with the kids).  They are also both firmly grounded in their faith in Jesus Christ, and are there to uphold each other in prayer.  During the tragedies of life (loss of family members), they have both been there for each other.  They are like family, even though they are not blood relatives.  Just like David and Jonathan, they are one in spirit.  

 

I wonder if God included this detail of David’s life as a reminder of the way He can work through others.  We are not meant to live in isolation.  The value of a steadfast, Godly friend is to be treasured.  Such a friend is a gift from God.  

 

Your fellow traveler,

 

Laurie