Letters from Roscoe

Friendship in Christ

I’m sitting here in the hospital waiting room. Cindy is being prepped for surgery and I am feeling loved.

When we arrived here at the hospital our pastor, Brother Eddie was here to meet us and to pray with us. Our dear friend Gene came in to see Cindy and deliver a card from Carolyn and although they have both left for now, I am feeling loved.

Since Cindy injured her leg two weeks ago our circle of Christian friends have rallied around us with prayers, food and fellowship. I have eaten dishes of food that were lovingly prepared. I have seen and felt the prayers being directed at Cindy (and me), and we have enjoyed the visits with everyone.

I have to say that I have never experienced this kind of love before. It is the kind that will be with you all the way through the hardest times in your life. You know, that tough, unyielding standing firm in the faith like a US Marine kind of love. This kind of loving friendship is brought to us only through Christ. For without his Spirit in each one of these lovely people there would be no friendship to be had.

Hobert just arrived and he sits with me. It is comforting to have someone here to converse with, to distract you from what’s happening. I got to serve that purpose the other day when Dick Thomas had his procedure.

When Eddie announced the time for Dick’s procedure the day before, I heard that little voice say ‘You need to be there.’ And it was no real surprise to me when I awoke at exactly 5:15 that morning without an alarm. It was just enough time to guzzle some coffee, post the Daily Bible verse and devotional and hit the road.

For some reason I felt a sense of urgency. I sped down the interstate and God seemed to be hurrying me along too because I never hit the first red light.

I got to the hospital and there sat Dick, Darlene and Brother Eddie. (They didn’t seem surprised to see me even though I was surprised to be there myself.). So we sat together, talked and prayed. After they took Dick back, we stayed with Darlene and then Hobert showed up. For the next two hours we just enjoyed one another’s company.

I left there wondering what the urgency was. Maybe I’ve discovered today what it was. God wanted me there as a loving friend for Dick and Darlene so I would know and understand why Eddie, Gene and Hobert came here today.

Out of love.

Love thy neighbor as thyself He said.

Thank you Jesus. I am loved.