Lean on me when you’re not strong

On Sunday Katie was able to share about the World Race with a slide show, Shayna was able to share a video, I was able to share about how God has been working all around the world and what He has been teaching me each month, and James got to give a message. All of us friends got to share something special together at a church service.  After the service we went into a room where they had food, drinks, and hangout time.  On my way to the restroom I saw a young man standing in a corner by himself drinking some tea or coffee.  He looked around as if he didn't know whether to walk up to someone or if someone was going to talk to him.  I thought he looked lonely and could use a friend.  I figured, well, if he is still standing there when I am done in the bathroom I will go up to him.

Sure enough, as I left the bathroom, there he was; alone.  I walked up with a smile to introduce myself.  Right away his face lit up and I asked questions to get to know him.  As people from the church came up to greet me "The American", I was afraid my new friend would leave.  Every time I looked over he was still standing there.  I was excited when we got to chat some more.  

I came to find out many things about him.  He has been in Malaysia for 3 years, he is studying, and has been attending this church for the past 3 years.  I later asked about his friends.  That's when I could tell that he missed home and missed his friends and family.  He began to share his heart about how it's hard to make friends in Malaysia for many different reasons.  He said he usually feels really lonely.

This was a moment where I didn't want to leave Malaysia because I wanted to be his friend.  He asked me questions and I kept encouraging him in many ways.  I asked if I could pray with him.  I think we both got a little teary-eyed. 

I thought about my new friend throughout the day and the next day and just made me think of my friends back home.  I have the most amazing friends.  It made me think of my family.  I have an incredible family. It made me think of my TeamMates and how I want to know them, I want to be the one that walks side by side them. I love these people.  It made me think about when I have been lonely, even in a crowded room.  We need REAL/RAW friendships.  We are not made to be lonely.  

Remember that everyone needs a friend.  Be a friend to those standing alone.  Be a friend to those who look out of place, be a friend to those you don't think you have anything in common with.  On Sunday I was reminded how important real friendships are.