My Friend Julie

Julie is a lovely woman who has found the perfect balance between being measured and transparent in her conversation. She is all about the Lord Jesus and I am blessed in her presence because of that. She has a heart so filled with love for her Saviour that she needn't be about the business of practicing the fruits of the Spirit -- they just flow!

And that, in turn, frees her up to be very real. When we do find time to fellowship it is rich with care, concern, laughter and edifying love. She is a thoughtful and forgiving woman; nearly every time our two families have had an afternoon of fellowship, one of my daughters -- who shall remain nameless *knowing grin* -- says something new or *cringe* does something that requires a little context for the other children not to think that there are strange things happening in our home.

Last time, I think it was as we were reading the Bible story of Moses' birth -- or maybe Jesus' -- when there was a mass murder of all boy infants. So, of course, this daughter being at an age that acts out her history for the larger sake of learning, suggested to the other children that they all play, "kill the babies!"

Oh no!

Can you imagine explaining that moment? Actually, I suspect most folks would have said nothing to me, but then thought a lot about it later. I prefer to have an opportunity to explain! So, thanks, Julie, for being that kind of friend. That was quite a "teachable moment," and I'm glad it was someone like you who humbly brought it to me.

I think my favorite thing about Julie is watching the fruit of her labor in the lives of her children. Her oldest is just a bit older than Fifi and she's got a good ratio of girls to boys amongst the 6 that she has right now.

I can trust her counsel because I see it alive in her children: all of them are considerate of others, her boys practice the art of chivalry from the youngest age, the girls are helpful and welcoming and they all hold their heads high as they respectfully submit to the correction of their parents. These children live in a house filled with love and it shows.

Julie is expecting her 7th child within the month...I think. I can't keep the date straight if it's October or November. I need to call her. If it were the other way around, she would know exactly when I was due.

You can meet my other real-life friends in this continuing series of random Friday posts.

Katherine
Shelly