Blossoming Friendships by Bee-ing a Friend

I used to find it tedious and time consuming, this little thing called chit-chat. My childish ears, oblivious to what was being said, eaves-dropped on Mom’s conversation with a friend at church about insignificant life events. Like a bee drawing sustenance from flower to flower, Mom would advance to another friend and begin the process all over again. During the week, Mom would call a friend who had mentioned a pressing need or problem and offered a listening ear and the promise to keep her in prayer. Her friendships were built from the smallest interactions gathered together with love.

I didn’t catch on to this until much later. As a teenager I thought, “My conversations are going to be substantial and full of meaning. No wasted words. No silly talk about how to make this casserole low-fat or knowing when the department stores have the best sale on children’s clothes.”  The desire to be profound inhibited my ability to see the prize to be found in mundane dialogues. If a bee passed up the insignificant flower to get to the really important blossom, gardens and honey would not exist.

I am mindful of what Luke 12:6-7 says about the little things, "Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? {Yet} not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 "Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.” So, what does God think about? Sparrows, hair counts, our daily cares, as well as saving the world from sin. To God, all things have value; all things are worthy of His attention and interest.

I no longer pass off a request for a low-fat recipe as something not worthy of my concern, but rather receive it as an invitation to inquire as to why my friend needs to adjust her cooking. Not to pry, but to show an interest in the things that affect her. Asking questions allow me to dig deeper in understanding her life. A need for prayer can be met right there. She is the treasure I hold dear.

The mention of department store sales may now initiate an impromptu shopping trip crowned with a visit to the neighborhood coffee house. Our casual dialogue is a way to invite Jesus into life issues revealed in a relaxed atmosphere.
​
Each little conversational moment offers significant value because God is in it.
Gather a bouquet of friendship and treasure its fragrance of life.

---