Tomorrow I will have lunch with a friend that I have not seen since we both left high school. He is a missionary with a denomination and has spent several years overseas. I am looking forward to hearing about life and family. We’ll also talk about his work in the Caribbean, it’s a rough life but someone has to do it. One time on the phone he was telling me about looking out of his home office and watching the waves. Poor guy.

Last year I met with another guy that I had not seen since my wedding almost 29 years ago. He was in a sort of ministry working in a variety of countries providing school supplies to missionary organizations. It was good to catch up with him. I like hearing about what God is doing in the lives of old friends.

It is difficult to maintain those friendships across the years and miles. One of the things I appreciate about the internet and networking is that I have been able to connect and catch up on many old friends and associates. Even writing this blog has instigated a couple of guys to contact me and ask about my ministry after some years of not hearing from them. I’m glad we live in this age of instant communication.

I guess the reason this has me thinking is my oldest daughter is probably moving 800 miles away and of course my youngest was married last week. 100 years ago we would probably be saying “farewell for life” thinking about that kind of move. Today it’s an hour and a half flight or 13 hour drive. With skype(? spelling) we can even see each other sometimes. Of course I will have to purchase that.

Anyway, looking forward to lunch. Connect with an old friend (not a boyfriend or girlfriend unless you’re not married ). Make it a time when you don’t need anything. It will encourage them that you thought about them.