Confession: I’m bad at friendships.  I attribute it to growing up in a military family and the frequent moves that prevented me from developing long-term relationships.  But that’s blame shifting.  In the words of Taylor Swift, “I’m the problem, it’s me.”  

I’m likely the most extraverted introvert you’ll ever meet.  I love telling jokes, sharing stories, and even enjoying the spotlight.  Yet, when it’s over, I want to curl up with a book, not people.  

Of course, this is counter to my conviction that each follower of Jesus needs deep, meaningful Christian community.  It’s a struggle. 

Perhaps that’s why I was recently gripped by a plea from the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:21, “Come before winter.”  On one level, Paul was concerned for Timothy’s safety.  Travel across the Mediterranean Sea was dangerous in the winter.  But beneath the travel advice was something deeply personal.  Paul knew his departure was near and his race was almost finished (2 Timothy 4:6-7).  He wanted to see his friend.  He wanted Timothy to arrive before it was too late. 

In the closing verses of 2 Timothy, Paul fills the page with names—Priscilla and Aquila, Onesiphorus, Erastus, Trophimus, and others. These aren’t throwaway greetings. They reveal a life woven together with faithful friends and gospel partners. 

Friendship is a means of God’s grace.  He rarely grows us alone. We need to be encouraged and to encourage others.    Even Jesus spoke of his disciples as friends (John 15:14).  I’ve jokingly said, “Perhaps Jesus’ greatest miracle was having friends while in his 30s.”  I’m now in my 40s. Uh oh.

Friendships can be hard. But they’re worth it. I need to pursue them before winter arrives.