I have a good friend that I visit and talk with frequently, most of the time daily. We get together and fellowship with each other and God. This is probably the most relaxing experience one can have on this earth — taking in the beauty of this world that God created in the company of a friend. These times remind me of my childhood; you know, before air-conditioning and cable TV. The family would sit outside under the shade tree, usually doing some sort of gardening work. Nevertheless, we were communicating, something becoming scarce in today’s busy world.

God still wants this solemn time with His followers. In Genesis 5, we hear of one such man God walked with, Enoch. Genesis 5:24, “And Enoch walked with God; and he was not; for God took him.” My friend and I had discussed this scenario while fellowshipping. We imagined God and Enoch walking along and my friend said, “God told Enoch, ‘Let’s finish this conversation at My House.’” Enoch was one of two mentioned in the Bible that didn’t die, God just took or came and got them. The other was Elijah.

In 2 Kings chapter 2 we are told of Elijah and Elisha traveling together, talking of this being Elijah’s last days. Without physical death, Elijah was taken to heaven, 2 Kings 2:11, “And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven.” Wow! To be so close and connected to God that you don’t even die to be with Him.

We too can have this closeness while on this earth. In John 14:16, Jesus states, “And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever.”  Jesus promises us comfort even when He is no longer physically with us, through the Holy Spirit.

To receive this Comforter Jesus tells us in John 14:17, “Even the Spirit of Truth; Whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him; but ye know Him for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.”

Jesus is telling us if we live with worldly desires, we can’t receive this comfort that He’s giving free to us. First you must give these sinful (worldly) desires to Him by admitting that you are a sinner. Then you must see, believe, and know that the son of God, Jesus Christ was crucified and resurrected from death. After this you can know Him; Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Then you too can find a friend to fellowship with as I have. Even though I have many brothers and sisters in Christ, which I fellowship with, next to God, Dr. Oscar Ramirez is my most frequented. I wonder if He’s thinking the same as I am when we fellowship, “How wonderful it will be to just be taken to God’s house directly to finish our conversation.”  God bless all.

Jeff Long lives in Salisbury.