My Best Friend

I’ve read so many letters and such to/about loved ones over the years, whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or another special occasion. Each time I read one, I get teary at the beauty of it. So, today, being the most special anniversary of my heart, I figured I would join in on the sappiness. Not that words could ever do Him justice, but I thought I would celebrate meeting my Best Friend. So, here’s my ode to Him, if you will.


Five years ago today, I sat in my living room and pressed play on the cd. For a while, I was so lost in the sound of the voice coming out of the speakers, I didn’t even hear You come in and introduce Yourself. I didn’t acknowledge that You say down beside me. I ignored Your presence just like I had each day of my life before then. And You just sat, patiently, waiting for me to turn my head and see You sitting there. For several songs, You whispered to me – encouragement and love, invitations of a life-changing friendship. And still I ignored You. Yet, still, You sat next to me, already knowing me better than I do. You sat in patient love, waiting for the perfect moment to soften my heart in the way that only You possibly could. And then, the next song started, and You began to sing along. Your voice was unlike anything I had ever heard. The tone was strong, victorious, and mighty, yet gentle, loving and full of peace. I finally looked at You, still unsure if I was ready for a friendship with You. I knew once I got to know You nothing would be the same – I wouldn’t be the same. But Your voice was so pure, I knew You could be trusted. Questions for You came flooding out of my heart and mouth. You looked at me with love in Your eyes, listening intently to each. Some You answered; most You told me the answer would come if I was willing to let You answer it in the most beautiful way later on. You know me – that got me frustrated – and I started to cry. Once again, You knew exactly what I needed and You hugged me tight. You held me, not wanting to let go, but prepared to if I demanded. But I felt safe in Your arms, and I told you so. I never wanted You to let go, and being the loving friend You are, You never have.

Instead, You and I started on this wonderful journey. I went off to college and You became my home away from home. The darkness came and You were my light. Heartache and You were my Healer. I got lost and you made a path for me back to the road. You opened doors and took my hand while I walked through them. Sometimes, I couldn’t or wouldn’t walk through on my own, so You carried me. When I was unsure about something, You were there to be my Counselor who shut out the world with Your unmatchable wisdom. I fell and You were the hand of grace to pick me up again. And even when I would argue with You, You didn’t argue back. You simply listened and spoke to me with patience, truth and love, until I surrendered. You never threw anything back in my face, and when I finally would admit that You were right, You weren’t boastful. You would chuckle softly and hug me like You did the day we met.

So many times over the past five years, You’ve opened Your mouth to sing for me, and each time I was left astounded. I never get tired of it or used to its miraculous sound. Every time I hear a new (to me anyway) quality in Your melodies. The more I know You, the more I want to know You. The more I know You, the more I realize how much I still don’t know You yet. It leaves me desperate for the next singing lesson You have planned.

Jesus, thank You for being my song for the past five years. Here’s to an eternity more. I love You, too.