Not real twins. Not even the same kind of birthdays. But two similar friendships. My lifelong friend, Sally, went to heaven on this day three years ago and my friend of nearly forty years, Julie, has her first birthday after fighting cancer. One is a heavenly celebration and is an earthly reminder that God still has more for us to do here on earth. Both are reminders God numbers our days.
Sally and Julie have something in common. Both enjoyed deep spiritual conversations. What does that mean? It is easy to quote, "God is love." It is not as easy to answer, "What does God's love look like?" Both grew up in different denominations than the ones they married into. Both were intentional in finding faith homes with their spouses that would have a strong influence on their children's spiritual growth. Both know the greatest joy of all:
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." -3 John 1:4
From heaven or in the pew, there is no greater joy. Nothing compares.
"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 them." 1 John 4:16
Masters of hard questions, pondering with them has gifted me with hours of spiritual conversations and even research at times as fellow learners seeking God's truth for our lives and in our lives. On their shared birthdays... heavenly and earthly... I am so grateful for them.
Sally challenged us all to memorize "The Love Chapter" at her funeral. The card of 1 Corinthians 13 still sits at my desk, as I am not there yet. It was easier to memorize when I was younger and I have so many translations in my head. Still, I will master it.
And, Julie is a constant reminder of what love looks like. She was my ministry partner for a decade in children's church and for probably three decades in other children's ministries.
A heavenly address does not change the love or the impact someone has on our lives. Cancer did not win against Sally... Sally won heaven. Julie's birthdays after cancer seem even more special. I do not take even one for granted.
Today, I am grateful for birthday twins.
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