Genuine Fellowship

Something recently made me think about fellowship. I just looked it up on dictionary.com and was somewhat pleased by the definition.

1. the condition or relation of being a fellow: the fellowship of humankind.
2. friendly relationship; companionship: the fellowship of father and son.
3. community of interest, feeling, etc.
4. communion, as between members of the same church.
5. friendliness.
6. an association of persons having similar tastes, interests, etc.
7. a company, guild, or corporation

The girls and I had some friends over to swim this afternoon and I was so blessed by the fellowship that we had with them. The kids had a nice time and I was able to sit and talk and share with my friend. Just the simple task of being together brought such joy to my week. I need to make the effort to carve out more time for this type of friendship.

We are all busy and our lives are crowded with lots of things to do. Important things. Valid things. But there is something beneficial to spending time with someone who uplifts you. The type of friend that builds you up rather than suck the life out of you. Someone who spurs you on to be better. Encourages you when you are down. Someone asks about your world.

It is a shame those types of friendships are few are far between. Though tonight I am thankful for all of those friends in my life. I dearly miss the ones I have moved away from. But I am grateful that when you come by the "Peapod", it's almost like we could sit and have a cup of coffee together. Sharing. Connecting. Encouraging. FELLOWSHIPING.