I got people.

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Truth (little t) can be found in lots of places. God can infuse truth about life and humanity into secular music, into popular novels and movies and, yes, even into advertising. A few years ago during tax season, H&R Block cleverly employed the slogan, “We’ve got people. Do you?” That’s sound marketing as they compete with software packages that enable people to do their own taxes at home. Everyone’s afraid of the IRS so they play on the fact that people want somebody to have their backs if the IRS comes callin’. But it’s also truth about humanity.

Everywhere I’ve turned today I have been confronted with the truth that people need people. We all want someone to have our backs. But we don’t all have people. And not all of us even agree that we need our own posse, but we do.

And I’m not necessarily crazy about the truth of that, honestly. People can be problematic and worrisome, and I genuinely struggle with having enough patience and energy for my children when they are particularly needy, so needy adults generally send me over the edge. And that is wrong. Jesus’ priority is people; my priority should be people.

And the rest of the story is that God showers abundant blessings on my life through those He has blessed me with. I have love from people who know what’s wrong with me and love me still. As cantankerous and moody and pointy as I can be at times – they love me still. As problematic, worrisome, and needy as I can be at times – they love me still. I’m grateful for my people, and I will continue to pray for a heart that reflects His.

I’ve been in places where I didn’t have close friends – just many acquaintances, and that is hard.  More than hard.  But I personally believe that God honors prayers from His children who are hungry for community. And when opportunities arise, we have to put ourselves out there.

People are strange and often hard to figure, but roll with it and see what God has in store.

Do you have people?  What is your biggest obstacle to pursuing real deal community in your life?

Hurry, Wait, and Wonder (Part I)
In the gym just working on my fitness (Part Three)

5 Comments

  1. LindZHaselden
    January 15, 2015 at 12:11 am

    We talked a little about this in small group the other night. Investing in relationships takes commitment and vulnerability–that feels risky. But without the risk I’d have missed the blessing of some pretty amazing friendships!

  2. KarenFreeman
    KarenFreeman
    January 15, 2015 at 2:31 am

    This girl has been very emotional this week but in a good kind of way! You ladies are my posse! Love that!! Cookie’s blog just helped declare my vulnerability that is coming up next…It’s been very heavy on my heart since starting at Newspring years ago the idea of being baptized again…was this supposed to be one of my next steps?! Before I always felt pressured to do it, or did it because that is what I was supposed to do (being a preachers daughter). Today on my drive in to work something hit me! (Natalie Grant “Your great name” was blaring, me in tears!) I am thrilled at what God has done and is doing in my life and I now know without a doubt I am his and he is mine. My 2015 motto is to go “All In” in every area of my life…so, (Part 1) I am going to be baptized on this Sunday!! It’s time to settle or maybe unsettle my heart even more! Go public, stop looking back and let go of the past!! This girl (me) was made on purpose and for a purpose and I am ready to give it all to God and refresh/restart my journey!! I can confidently now say this! Our group has done wonders for me and I appreciate all of you more than you know! You are my people, my posse and I’ve got your backs! We were all made on purpose and for a purpose and I am so thankful to have you in my life now. I needed this community so badly and I can only pray that I can help you as much as you all have helped me! Please be praying for this FIRE that God has put in my heart today! I don’t want to loose this fire and feeling, ever!! Thankful for GRACE and for you!! Xoxoxo

    • Cookie Cawthon
      January 15, 2015 at 3:08 am

      Karen, I love hearing this passion in you, lady! You are a force, and I can’t wait to see what Jesus does in and through you in 2015! Let’s go!

    • Mary Torgersen
      Mary Torgersen
      January 15, 2015 at 5:23 pm

      My precious Joy, Gods hand has been on you “before you were born!” You have been my completing, and I too am so looking forward to whatever is next!! Press on my soldier!!! So much love, Mom

  3. Kathy Hutchinson
    Kathy Hutchinson
    January 16, 2015 at 1:59 am

    This is so good! Karen, how wonderful to hear that God is stirring your heart in so many ways! Dang He is so good!