Soul Friends

This weekend I was reminded poignantly of the place of soul friends in my life. As I began gearing up for the fall season, even though I’m not entirely sure what it will bring, I was given the rich opportunity to re-connect with some dear companions on the journey.

There is a pop song called Hey Soul Sister that you can still get as a ringtone, and I almost chose that as the title for this week’s blog. But, much as I know how much I need my soul sisters, I also have soul brothers who play an equally important role in my life. Whenever I’m discouraged, overwhelmed, or needing to share joy and what’s really going on in my life, my soul friends are usually my first call or facebook message. 

Sharing with these particular women this past weekend reminded me of how critical it is that we have people who inspire us in our walk, who have seen us over a span of time and know our gifts and challenges, and who we know will greet us with joy no matter what is happening in our lives. Ministry can be lonely, and if we are blessed to have had good friends that God has placed along our path, we need to value them and be grateful for what they have offered to us in Christ. I can hardly imagine surviving without several who could remind me of my value and God’s love for me. At the same time, it is a privilege to be able to offer joy, encouragement, grace and care to my soul friends, and to feel that God is working through me to bless them even as they bless me.

If you have soul friends, those who you can turn to and find a faith perspective on whatever you are facing, then celebrate them. Find a way to acknowledge the role they play in your life. Thank God for bringing these people to you, and remember the story of how you met, of what journeys you have shared, and the difference they have made to you.

Any time is a good time to re-connect with a soul friend, but the summer is a particularly good time to check in. As we try to shake out the cobwebs and find our centre once more so that we can be enthusiastic for a new season, grounding ourselves is important. If you can’t linger together at a campfire, go out for a good meal or have a long phone chat. Celebrate your friendship and your ability to ‘let it all hang out’ and be real about the challenges and concerns you have. Find mutual encouragement and be reminded of your immense value in God’s eyes and in the eyes of those who care about you.

If you don’t feel that you have soul friends to reflect with and gain perspective from, then think about whether you used to and have lost touch. Reach out to see if you can re-establish the connection. The other person may be wondering the same thing as you. If not, move on and ask the Spirit to show you who God has primed to bring into your life at this moment. Keep your eyes open to who may also be looking for someone to share the journey with and who seems to click with you. We can need different people’s insights and gifts at different times. Expect God to bring people into your sphere who will offer something helpful to you.

Treat your soul friends well. Try to find balance in your time together, listening and sharing as equally as possible. Recognize that sometimes one person is more in need than the other. Keep it fresh and light, feeling deeply what you both need to recharge and celebrate your friendship. Be realistic about each others’ time and honour it. Take opportunities to meet as chances to experience God in new ways. Pray for each other in between phone chats, e-mails, get-togethers and events you both attend.

As we enter August, I encourage you to cherish and thank your soul friends and God for bringing you together. Many a soul friend has helped me through challenges and dark nights, and I sincerely hope that I have been as much of a blessing in their lives. Take this transition month, from summer to autumn, from holiday back to routine, to connect with your soul friends if you can. Help each other to prepare for what is coming, while celebrating what has been and what is in our walk with Christ.

With thanks to all soul sisters and brothers!