Every week I meet up for coffee in a local cafe with a small group of friends. We are a diverse group of people, sharing one common thread: each one of us has experienced God’s healing power at work in our lives.

Graham Cooke is quoted as saying: “God heals us 80% of the way. Then he gives us friends.”

Some of my friends have experienced major breakthroughs, in recovering from abuse, mental health issues, or addictions, but they still have to make courageous daily choices to move forwards into a better future.

This is where friendship and community is invaluable, as we support, encourage and pray for one another.

This is a slightly different post today. The following poem was inspired as I sat in the cafe with my wonderful, brave friends, laughing together and sharing stories. I was filled with thankfulness for all that Jesus has done in our lives; for his healing power and love, and for the gift of friendship.

 

Cheating Death

Tales of scandalous grace

Tumbled from their lips

Filling the cafe

With exuberant laughter

 

Aborted suicide missions

And cell doors flung wide open

The self destruct buttons

Of addiction

Exchanged for commissions

 

They talked of angels

And glory dust

And miracles

And the man of sorrows

Praying in the garden

 

Her breath caught

Momentarily in her throat

Silenced at the

Unspeakable mystery

Of love

 

Inexpressible joy

Surged into

Rivers of mirth

Inconceivable redemption

Stories flowed

 

And they laughed

Each one secure

In the certainty

Of a Love

Stronger than death

As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to thank each one of you who has stopped by to read or follow this blog, or to offer encouragements.

May you be blessed with loving friends, who understand you, share in your journey, and encourage you to be all that you are destined to be.

May you be blessed with love, peace and joy this Christmas, and a New Year filled with hope.