Each year I spend a few days with the kind of friends you keep for a lifetime. All of us went to the same college in central Mississippi, but we didn’t all graduate at the same time. The oldest of us just signed up with Medicare, the youngest of us is a short decade away from that. And we’re all preachers or have been, so if you think it’s a quiet getaway, think again.
We have met in various locations over the years with a variety of participants. Over the years we have gathered in North Georgia, Pensacola, Kentucky Lake, on Ross Barnett Reservoir, and Arkansas. But the past few years we have met at a beautiful lake house on Eagle Lake, just north of Vicksburg. A member where one of our participants ministers owns the house and generously allows us to meet there. We’re all very grateful.
In the past we have had guest teachers come in to share with us - and that was always enjoyable. But we have discovered over the years that since we know one another so well, we typically enter very quickly into discussions of things that we want to share about our lives and ministries, struggles and joys, and Scriptures that we ponder. Of course, there are lots of laughs and a couple of chefs among us (as well as wives who send along treats) make sure we are well-fed. We should probably fast one of these retreats, but we can’t reach a consensus on that! Oh, and there’s fishing, with an occasional catch.
The task of ministry is challenging in the times in which we live. Ministers have their own set of spiritual, emotional, mental, and even physical struggles. I doubt I can understand the pressures on a doctor, an educator, or a law enforcement officer. In the same way, those who are not in ministry probably can’t understand the specifics that we face - but another minister knows exactly. So the time together is very valuable, refreshing, unburdening, and energizing. The friendship we share gives weight to the conversations and insights.
What it always seems to come down to, though, is the rehearsal of the stories. I suppose we tell them because we want to remind ourselves of the laughter and tears of the years we have experienced together. Occasionally we tell them as if we had never told them before. Maybe we’re forgetful. Maybe we’re mindful that these stories outline the trek of our lives in service to the Lord and with one another. The stories remind me that we come from such dramatically different backgrounds that one would never predict we would be friends. And they remind us that God has carried us through some dark valleys and bright mountaintops over the years.
So, in true preacher style, let me end this post with three points and a poem.
First, never take for granted the friends in your life. Whether you’ve had them for decades or days, a friend is an important and valuable resource for help, counsel, and even correction.
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. -Proverbs 18:24
Second, never forget your value as a friend to others. This is a lonely world with a lot of hurt and pain. Your smile, warmth, attentive care, and presence is of use to the Lord in bringing healing and joy to others.
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. - Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Third, remember that making friends is simply about being friendly. We’ve all been hurt and betrayed by those we thought were our friends. Don’t let that keep you from reaching out to make new friends, keeping a wise spirit about you. Our lives are short and it is a blessing to have a friend nearby … even if it is over the phone or keyboard.
Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice. - Proverbs 27:9
And now for the poem, an original haiku: Friendship
Oh, and the crew…
And a few more images from the retreat.
Thanks for reading and liking this post. I am grateful to know it held something encouraging to you.
You are blessed indeed. I am going to linger a little while longer over your pictures while I drink my ginger tea. I think I will call a friend today 😉
Simply put----- excellent! Love your writing style and photos. Oh yes, I hope to see you and Jim at our preacher's meeting this Monday.