Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will. — Psalm 40:8 and 9

Mass readings: Isaiah 7:10-14;8:10 / Hebrews 10:4-10 / Luke 1:26-38 

Loyal Friends 

My friend, Scotty, and I were in the same homeroom at Magnificat High School, an all-girls school. Given the school’s name, the Feast of the Annunciation was very important. As juniors we received our class rings on that day, which we dubbed Ring Day. A newly-licensed driver, Scotty drove her dad’s car to the Ring Day festivities and promptly rear-ended a concrete lamp post and dented the fender. Terrified, she asked me to walk into her house with her to face her dad. I did. 

Many years later I needed emergency oral surgery. Afraid, I called Scotty who came to help me. We count our friendship as one of God’s greatest gifts to us. Like Mary and her cousin Elizabeth, we’re certain God has placed us in each other’s lives as companions for the journey. 

Prayer: Lord, thank You for lifelong companions.