Monday, May 16, 2011

I have called you friends...

"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends
You are my friends if you do what I command you.
No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; 
but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you."
John 15:12-15 

Tonight, I saw these verses evidenced in the lives of our friends. 
Over the last few months, John has gotten to know the guys who lead the Hispanic church at SMCC.

  [Brother Issac, Pastor, J, and Brother Jason]

These men are men of God. They fear the Lord and love each other. 
They laugh together, hug each other, and pray for one another.
It has been such a blessing to watch these men do ministry together in such a great way.

Tonight, we gathered together to celebrate the birthday of Pastor and his beautiful twin sister.

[Cecilia and Pastor Erick]

As we drove, we discussed the worries of life and the exhaustion of looking at another week ahead.
When we walked through the door of our friends' home, 
immediately the joy of the Lord met us.
We ate some amazing homemade food from El Salvador, played fun games, 
chatted, prayed together, and laughed... a lot.


I am so thankful for the fellowship of these friends.
They welcomed us with open arms, even though we don't speak Spanish very well,
and offered their home to us anytime.

Pastor exemplified this passage in his words and actions tonight, as he does everyday.
True friendship is hard to come by,
and although I have only known this group of people for a short time,
it feels as though it has been a lifetime.

Thank you, Pastor and Yami, for inviting us into your home
and allowing us to celebrate with you.
Your marriage is such an encouragement to us and your faith is inspiring.
We love you more than we can express
and are so very thankful for your hearts and friendship.
Dios te bendiga.

[J & C, Issac & Alma, Pastor & Yami, me & J]

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