Longing for Friendship

Kelly Malcolm
Mar 23, 2016
2 min read

Greetings!

Her beautiful eyes brimmed with tears, a sadness filled her face. It was a simple question. “What do you hope to gain from our program?” Her answer was just as simple, “I long for fellowship.”

Her answer was raw and compelling; I was moved. You see, I’ve asked many clients this question and have never received an answer like hers. Most times I hear answers like: I need diapers and clothes, or a carseat, or formula. Those are great answers and we’re happy to provide these things, but sitting across from me was a girl whose hunger for connection and relationship exceeded her very real physical needs.

Many times our clients come to us with broken lives, shattered dreams and wounded hearts. Their unspoken broken fills their eyes with a hopelessness and sorrow that you cannot look away from, you cannot turn your back on, you cannot forget.

As I looked at that precious girl, I was reminded of a time in my life when I just needed someone to care enough to reach out and say, “I know you’re hurting. I care about you and I’m here for you.” You know something? God provided exactly that! He brought godly women (and men) into my life. The encouragement, love and acceptance was life changing. And because my life was forever changed, so was that of my family. The eternal dividends of servitude are priceless. The seeds of love and grace planted today inspire new beginnings, kindling hope for future generations. Isaiah said it perfectly. “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!’” Isaiah 52:7 At Abide, we are committed to sharing the hope and peace of the Gospel to every client that walks through our door. Through word, deed and yes, fellowship, she will know that she is loved and accepted, that her past does not define her, that God has healing and restoration for her today, and a new life direction for her and her future generations.