Recently I saw a new angle in a verse from the book of Job.
I used to think that Job’s friends were not very empathetic and did not know how to relate to him and his tragedies. Now I see a new perspective. In the beginning of the story, Job’s friends actually sat with him for one week not saying anything.
“Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights. No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was”. Job 2:13
Just being with him. Not giving advice… Not criticizing…They showed up.
We might ask, “Didn’t they know what to say?”
Perhaps they should have kept their mouths shut! Just being with someone in a crisis is a powerful healing tool. Maybe that’s what gave Job the capacity to actually listen to their human faulty words and to seek God and to feel and express himself even though he was self-righteous and defensive with his friends’ accusatory tendencies. In the long run, Job understands that God is good and that even though there is pain, the Lord is our redeemer and He is mighty and knows more than anyone or anything here on earth. And let’s face it, his friends were present. They showed up.
The joy and healing of connection
There is something to learn about our human interactions and about exposing ourselves to others. Yes, we can be hurt if we vulnerably expose ourselves to others, but if we don’t we may not experience the joy of human empathy, comfort and connection.
The power of being present
We can learn about comfort and how “just being with someone” can prove powerful and show commitment. Being present gives margin so mistakes are not always devastating to the relationship. Grace flows freely to the friend who shows they care…who keeps in touch and is present in times of need. We can forgive awkward moments and soak in the comfort the Holy Spirit brings to us through them…but only if they are present.
Proverbs 10:19
“When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise”.
In times of deep grief and pain there may be no words or few words… It’s OK if we don’t know what to say. Healing and comfort will come with:
More Time
Less advice
More listening
Less judgment
More affirming
I want to be a present friend – able to lend a listening ear, a comforting word and a shoulder for tears. I’m thankful for friends that tell me the truth even when it hurts and am thankful friendship’s treasure is present in my distress.
Are you longing for deeper more meaningful human connections?
Prayers for the bravery to walk deeply into the waters of friendship…-Madge
It is time for a puppy fix. Hot summer days require refreshing water nearby. June is our neighbor’s precious golden retriever pup.
This is one of 
Pirelli was born at Canine Assistants without a foot and is now 
Tahoe meets neighbor ‘June Bug’ for the first time. He loves other pups…as long as they don’t interfere with his meals or play time. After all, he’s the one who gets to go everywhere.
Tahoe loves children and helps them overcome canine fears.
Hooper, a friend’s golden doodle, recently stayed with us for several days and decided to dominate and take over the bed. He’s a snuggler and almost makes Tahoe jealous.
Zeek, a neighbor’s German Shepherd, loves Brent’s attention when he comes to the Williams hotel. Yes, Tahoe is patient with company and his dog whispering dad.
Our nieces visited for a week and when we were waiting for their departing flight Tahoe was sad and needed comfort. See how he suffers.
Leah gives love as she says good-bye. She has a special bond with Tahoe.
Now that all the company is gone, at least for a few days, Tahoe just wants to go inside…run to the backyard…
…. play some Kong
…and happily go to bed with mom and dad and no visiting dogs, kids, friends or cousins.