The Value Of Friends

John Chrysostom (347–407) was one of the great preachers in the early church. He was given the name Chrysostom, which means “golden-mouthed,” because of his eloquent sermons.
Here is one of his insights on the value of friends: “Such is friendship, that through it we love places and seasons; for as . . . flowers drop their sweet leaves on the ground around them, so friends impart favor even to the places where they dwell. With friends even poverty is pleasant. . . . It would be better for us that the sun were exhausted than that we should be without friends.”
The story of Jonathan and David illustrates the value of friendship. Though David was hunted by the demented King Saul, he drew encouragement from his friendship with Saul’s son. “Jonathan . . . loved [David] as he loved his own soul” (1 Sam. 20:17). Their relationship was characterized by trust, understanding, and encouragement. How difficult it would have been for David to endure this unjust persecution without the nourishment of friendship based in the Lord (v.42).
The ancient voice of Chrysostom and the witness of David and Jonathan are reminders of the need to nurture the friendships God has given us. — Dennis Fisher

Since I have no gold to give, And love alone must make amends, My daily prayer is while I live—“God, make me worthy of my friends.” —Sherman

A friend is the first person who comes in when the whole world has gone out.

Running Room - Week #8

Had a great run last night..It was quite humid, but I felt so good after my run.
I have already joined the 10K clinic at Bank Street which will start on the 15th of August. Looking forward to the Hills!!

By your Side

Tenth Avenue North - By Your Side
From the album Over And Underneath

Why are you striving these days?
Why are you trying to earn grace?
Why are you crying?
Let me lift up your face Just don't turn away
Why are you looking for love?
Why are you still searching?
As if I'm not enough?
To where will you go child, Tell me where will you run?
To where will you run?

Chorus:Cause I'll be by your side wherever you fall
In the dead of night whenever you call
Please don't fight these hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you

Look at these hands, at my side
They swallowed the grave, on that night
When I drank the world's sin
So I could carry you in
And give you life

Chorus:Here at my side wherever you fall
In the dead of night whenever you call
Please don't fight these hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you
And I, I love you
And I want you to know That I, I'll love you

How will people remember you at YOUR funeral???

I was at a funeral yesterday for a dear friend Grandpa Dave. He was absolutely the most amazing man I have ever met...his 63 years on this earth was certainly not wasted. He invested in people, spent time loving and being with children, encouraging them, playing with them and reading to them. My best friend Kim knows all too well what a difference he made in her life..doesn't the bible talk about caring for the poor and the widows?? Grandpa Dave stepped into Kim's life at a time when she was in great need. He as THERE for her....and for her children. The last time I saw him was in early July when I went to see one of Gavin's T-Ball games. He was never too big of a man to step in where needed....what an inspiration he was.
At his funeral, when the minister asked if anyone wanted to share a story about Grandpa Dave, Kim was the first to speak...she wanted people to know what an effect he had had on her life...what a difference he made, what will people say at your funeral?? Will they have to lie?? make up stories??
Live like this is your last day, every day!! Love people deeply and show them they have value in your eyes....everybody is important and deserves to be loved.
Rest in Peace Grandpa Dave