When there's help along the way...

...it makes a big difference. I'm referring to the help one may receive along the "walk". I hung out with a good friend yesterday. First of all, it was nice just to catch up. I haven't seen her in months. More importantly, seeing her brought me back to a certain time, the last time I felt really close to God. That was about 3 years ago. It's been too long.

I realize why that was the case back then. At the time, the kind of people we were and the things we were involved in was conducive to positive, godly interactions. With a good environment with good people, you're more inclined to be devoted and faithful. Looking back, I was in a good place, and it felt good to be there.

Despite occasional trials, my friend's faith hardly wavered. That inspired me to strengthen my own. To her, I was a stand-up, Catholic guy. So, for my sake (and maybe for others) I wanted to live up to that image. I did various things to build up and maintain my spirituality. I had a good run. When you know you're being counted on, the motivation is that much greater.

Having a friend to inspire and push you makes a world of difference. They serve as the "hands" of the body of Christ. If there's a lesson to be learned here, it's that one should take advantage of any opportunity to find inspiration to get close to God. It can come in any form. It usually comes in a form that speaks closest to your heart. Watch for it.

Have a nice day off, my friends.