the need for companionship

People who knew Jackie often find it difficult when they first visit my house. They can easily picture her in her house. Now, after 7 months of her not being in the house I find it easier but still have my moments. At first, it was difficult even sitting at the dinning room table alone, or touching something in the kitchen, seeing a book or her clothes or her favorite chair. But she is no longer here.

Sometimes I remember conversations and times when one of us was feeling hurt or vulnerable. And I remember hugging one another and praying for one another at these times. Jackie is in the bosom of the Lord now but she is no longer here to comfort me.

I am slowing getting use to being alone and learning to deal with the loneliness. But I am also learning to experience being at the dinner table dining with Jesus or having Him close by my side. Sometimes, frankly, I just need a hug and want to experience Jesus enfolding me in His arms.

Sometimes I feel God’s presence like that but there are other times when He seems far less present and tangible. I want to develop my relationship with the Lord and experience His companionship more often.

The Biblical prescription is to come before Him, acknowledging Him as Lord and Savior and being up to date with Him having confessed all known sin. Doing so, we have great promises. We know for example that He is always looking for those whose hearts are turned to Him. I find He is very accessible when I follow this prescription.

Lord, please draw near to me as I draw near to you. I need your very tangible presence and companionship in my life right now.

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“ Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (James 4:8)

"For The Eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him." (2 Chronicles 16:9)

"This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. . . . And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him." (1 John 4:9, 16)