Yesterday I did a funny. I know you weren’t paying attention, but I was and I laughed on your behalf. The funny was in the line ‘I’m that kind of friend’, which was a humorous quip about another song title that Walter Hawkins is famous for writing. It’s this song you see. you get the title and stuff now, yeah? You can laugh. Go on.
Anyway, now that we’re over that a serious word on this song. The power of a song is in its ability to pierce through flesh and blood and reach the very essence of a matter. Today is my sister’s birthday and in a way this song is for her, and in a way is about something that she shadowed. On this significant day in the family calendar I remember the best friend I had from 1996-2002. Growing up with Ruth in Wellingborough is a time I reflect on humorously as rather combative. Although the concept of a combat involves two warring factions and the clear dominance of Ruth was such that she might feel insulted at the thought that our relationship was some sort of fight for her. In spite of this, as a tight family and as the eldest child, Ruth took her responsibilities as my ‘big’ sister very seriously.
It was after I left home to go to university that the value of the friendship kicked in and more in tribute to her later. Times change and relationship dynamics change as well, but what has remained and endured and left an imprint is what it is to be a true friend. Not just a sibling but a true friend. And yet for the faithfulness, endurance and support that Ruth continues to give as much as is possible, she is but a shadow for that deeply impactful friendship that she pointed towards, namely that between Jesus and meself.
Considering the context of this performance where people are celebrating the life and paying tribute in the passing of a dear friend, it is so good to have an everlasting, ever present, ever caring, ever consoling, ever protective, ever encouraging, ever edifying Friend that sticks closer than a brother. Still, that’s what makes Jesus so special – He and only He is that kind of friend.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
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Life With CD 