Causes can bond people together. So can our values. An inspiring mission or vision can rally people. Sometimes a good, clear goal can do it. The thrill of some exciting shared moment can have a lingering, unifying effect.
Those are all good things, don’t get me wrong. But the bonds they forge are usually rather fleeting. And maybe that’s fine as far as it goes. Let us give thanks.
Yet few things truly bond people together like suffering, grief, and loss. Somehow, in our darkest moments, the person who just happens to be standing besides us when the shit hits the fan ends up becoming a lifer. One of those relationships that will always remain, even through the changing of seasons. A bond that even time and distance can’t break.
Somewhere in this is the grace of the God who does not leave us alone.
Next time a storm thunders in out of nowhere, pause to take a look around you. Let whoever is nearby take you by the hand. Take them by the hand. Walk together until the light breaks through the clouds.
