Visiting Friends

John 15:17 “This is my command:  Love each other.”

I’m never quite sure how I do it, but somehow I happen upon unique people.  I think I get this tendency from my father, but regardless, it happens.   This past winter I came across an Amish organic dairy farmer.  At that time I began buying milk from them.  Through my weekly visits I have become good friends with the Mrs., Loretta.  She is a dear sweet Amish women, mother of 7 children expecting #8 in the fall.  I have so enjoyed my conversations during each visit.  She has sent me away with Amish peanut butter, homemade bread, and homemade pickles.  I have had the privilege of meeting each of her children, one who is now married and has moved “far away” (45 minutes by car).  I do think if I had a large passenger van I would take her to see her daughter when I had the chance!  I asked if I could take her picture, as expected she said that was not allowed for fear of it becoming an idol.  So instead I took a picture of her home and all of the buggies lined up visiting her Grandma who lives beside their house.  Each time I go it is apparent that she longs for company, someone to talk with about anything and everything.  Through my visits with her she introduced me many months ago to my next visit for the day, Miriam.  Miriam makes butter and sells it to me for a mere $2/lb!  Yes, that’s extremely cheap.  Needless to say, I agreed to buy from Miriam any extra butter that she had.  When I arrived at Miriam’s I was greeted by 6 wide-eyed children.  They never said a word, unless spoken to, but stared at me as if they’d never seen anything like me before.  She invited me to stay and talk, as she is much farther away from people, and when all you have for transportation is a horse and buggy you don’t get out much.  Unfortunately I happened to squeeze my milk and butter run into my day not leaving a lot of time for chit chat.  But I made a note to myself of their need for friendship and visitors, and promise to stay and visit next time.

The above picture is 30 sweet potato plants that Miriam gave me at no charge to plant in my garden!  She offered me more from her supply but I think I’ve got my work cut out for me in planting 30! 

As I left my friends I realize that these are 2 of the many Divine appointments in my life.  God has placed them in my life and me in theirs.  I am still not sure why, and I may never know. 

For now I will seek to be a true friend and love them as Christ commanded.