taking the long way home.

if i had the spiritual discipline of beth moore, the unending funds of oprah, the insight of jesus himself, and a knack for coffee and strict deadlines, i'd write a devotional on Romans. i think Romans might be one of the most chopped-full-of-goodness books of the Bible. Paul is writing to a group of people he adored, that were like-faithed, and actually not being chastized (i mean, Paul is the man and all, but sometimes, he comes off a leeeeetle bit cocky. hey, he's sort of got the authority to. more power to him; quite literally.) i digress to say, i imagine that if paul ever thought, ever wanted a book to be published regarding his teachings on Christ, it would be this one. one written to those most near-and-dear to his own heart.

which makes me look at it in light of my own dear friends. dear friends that are praying for me and walking through this life with me, carrying me at times. dear girlfriends that came over for a new bible study we're starting. i'm reminded of the latter verses of Romans, in which Paul calls to his loved church to "rejoice with those who rejoice; and weep with those who weep." (Rom. 12:15), and enjoining those "who are strong, ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength." learning each others' weaknesses tonight reminded me that not only are we not alone in our struggles, but we are to be in this thing together. what gets us caught up, be it sin, or challenges, or passions, should cause our friends to fight or embrace that with us.

in a life thats unfortunately filled with a lot of letting things go, it was a humbling, encouraging reminder that i indeed have been blessed with people willing to stand up and fight with me. that breaks my spirit with gratitude, and for the first time today, reduces my numbed, emotionless body to tears.

thank you jesus for your many blessings.

bearing each others' weaknesses and rejoicing for victories and strengths,

xoxo