The Museful Mind

Gethsemane… the Blessing of Friends

Violet flowers and pale green leaves reaching for rays of sunshine

We were never meant to walk this world alone.  For God gave us each other.  And so, we are free…  to share the good times, that our joy might be multiplied; to express the sorrows, that our grief might be easier borne.  No matter the road traveled, or the turn taken, connecting with each other is how we face the challenges of life. 
There is an inherent strength whenever two (or more) hearts meet in fellowship.  A certain healing which takes place when souls touch, one with another.  This is the very definition of friendship.  And the power it has to brighten the days and times of our life, in both sunshine and rain.

Yellow spring daffodil

Everybody needs friends.  There are no exceptions.  The strong silent type we hear about is only a myth.  It is not an ideal to be followed or emulated.  And being an independent person is fine – but it will only get you so far.  Our lives require the presence of other hearts and souls, following similar paths, who can bless our steps with acceptance, reassurance, and encouragement.

Even Jesus needed friends.  As the Son of God, he was both master and teacher to the disciples.  Instructing, sharing; making known The Word among us.  Clothed in a mantle of divinity, Jesus walked with authority and grace touching the hearts of those who were called to hear.  That is… until Gethsemane.
There in the garden, he became Son of Man, putting his life into the hands of others.  “Not my will, Father, but Thy will be done.” 

Overwhelmed with grief and sorrow, Jesus brought Peter, James, and John with him into the garden.  The company of friends was important that night, as his soul yearned for comfort and strength.  Their presence provided support, within the limits of their human-ness, for the coming ordeal of trial and crucifixion.

Rustic homemade cross nestled on a mossy tree stump

And so, Jesus would go on to fulfill the Scriptures – that his death might bring us life.  The anguish felt amidst the dark shadows of that garden, grants him the grace to feel our own moments there… and in spirit walk beside.

The presence of friends is just as important to us.  We each have our own garden of Gethsemane at various points in life.  Like Jesus, find comfort and support in the hearts of those willing to accept and understand us for who we are.  Friends, caring and ministering one with another, are a reflection of God’s own love.  Imparting assurance and strength to help lighten the darkness, until whatever dawn may come, bringing in a new day with its hope of refreshment and relief from trial. 

For there is no sorrow too deep, nor pain too great which this love –His Love – can but touch, and thereby bring ease.  In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus needed this assurance.  In the garden of life, we do as well

Palm frond glistening with drops of water

And so, we have Holy Week.  Acknowledging its trials and pain, its deep sorrow; only to come out joyful and victorious in the end.  Let us also acknowledge the friends who accompany us on this life’s journey.  Who remain by our side through the dark watches of night, and yet also rejoice with us when the sun of a new, brighter day dawns

At Gethsemane and beyond… Jesus’ once faithful disciples were called upon to become loving friends.   And within that friendship, remained true to His heart and His message… unto the end of all time.

How blessed we are to have the same.  In the sharing of one soul with another, there is a constant flow of comfort, encouragement, and whatever support might be required.  Sufficient enough to see us through our own Gethsemane moments.  We are assured of God’s Presence, for He makes his Home in the hearts of those who reach out a caring hand, offer an encouraging word… or extend a thoughtful gesture.

Weathered cross on a bed of ivy under a blue sky

Amidst the many gardens over the course of our life, friends are the flowers who warm the heart and cheer the soul.  Providing inspiration for thoughts and deeds, that might never have been otherwise.  Offering support, that we might find the courage to step forth in confidence.  Thereby allowing for growth beyond a limited mind-set; freeing our imaginations and dreams to soar.  The abiding presence of such companions within our lives brings color and brilliancy to the day… comfort and company to the night.

Basket of pink tulips and lace-covered pastel Easter eggs on an embroidered floral background

No, we do not walk alone, for the touch of a friend is God’s love made manifest – alive and blooming in our hearts.   And never more so than now! 
For it is Spring-time and Easter!  We are entering into, and celebrating, a season of rebirth and new life… of hope and the promise of possibilities heretofore unseen!

We rejoice in the Risen Christ… and in faithful friends.

You shall go forth with joy; And be led out in peace;
 The mountains and the hills shall break into singing before you,
And all the trees of the field will clap their hands”.
(Isaiah 55:12)

Pale pink apple blossoms against a grove of pale green tree leaves
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4 thoughts on “Gethsemane… the Blessing of Friends”

  1. Beautifully said! Friendship is truly a need and having friends is truly a blessing, in good times and difficult times. I’m so blessed to have you as a friend, Bev!

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