How many times have I said, “I’m so glad for my friends!”  These are the people I can depend upon for games of pinochle, rides to and from the airport, encouragement, thrift store scavenging, dining, and long walks with healing talks. 

Upon reflection, though, I realize I need to expand that statement to, “I’m so glad for my relationships!”

Let’s start with my relationship with the Lord. It is one of awe and joy. He searches my heart. He knows me. And He loves me anyway. I know it is safe for me to let my peace and happiness depend on Him.  He also uses others to strengthen my relationship with Him, particularly through Bible studies. My friends in those groups are God’s love “with skin on.”

My family relationships give me feedback that shapes me. When I was growing up, they were the first mirror to show me that I like to read, I am outgoing, etc.  Today my family members are very happy, willing and, at times, not so willing to weigh in on my choices and actions.  Maybe my choice of a Mohawk was a bit extreme…

Recently I have become aware that “all things are made new” through my relationships at work as well.  I have been a computer operator, missionary, office temp, and social worker.  Currently I am working as an aide in an elementary school with a classroom teacher who seems to value my life experiences, such as world travel, speaking Spanish, and the challenges of impaired hearing.  A student in that classroom also demonstrated the renewing power of relationships with a letter he wrote me after I returned from a two-week trip to Europe. It said, “Dear Mrs. Jacobson, I missed you all week.  I can’t wait to see you!  Did you have a good time?  From E.”

Our relationships protect us from the lies of isolation. Isolation says, “Nobody cares. Nobody understands. You are stuck. Nothing will ever change.”  I am so glad for my relationships with God, my family, my friends and my co-workers. These people tell me I am cared about, understood, valuable and capable!

Take stock of your relationships. How are all things being made new through these relationships?

Susan Jacobson is a newly 60-year old female who presently resides in Bismarck ND. There is only so much Spider Solitaire a woman can play before thinking, "Hmm, what else can I do before I die?" From this arose her interest in blogging as a way to share with other women and praise God. Read more JOY posts by Susan.