Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
I was on a work/study scholarship in College during my Freshman year and was assigned to the Administrative Offices. That is where I saw one of the most joyful friendships I've ever seen. Chancellor Tate had a friend who would arrive secretly. His friend's arrival was announced in loud laughter, talk, and slaps on the back. So Willis Tate would drop what he was doing and go have fun.
Dr. Tate's friend, Bob Hope, a comedian and movie star, would come up the back stairs and surprise Chancellor Tate. I've not heard so much laughter between friends! Then they would be off to walk the Dallas SMU campus, go golfing, or to eat at the cheap burger restaurant just up the street from the college. We loved both of these guys! They showed us what it meant to Rejoice Always.
One time Bob Hope told someone, "Whenever I play golf with Gerald Ford, I usually try to make it a foursome--- the President, myself, a paramedic, and a faith healer." The faith healer Mr. Hope was referring to was Rev. Oral Roberts from Tulsa, Oklahoma, buried not far from where my Dad is buried. We surely rejoice in friendships and acquaintances.
Jesus' had lots of good friends. Early in His ministry He took His disciples to a wedding. When the humble couple ran out of wine at the celebration, a real embarrassment for them, Jesus' mother asked Him to turn vats of temple purification water into wine. As His wine was served to the wedding steward for tasting the man joyously exclaimed that it was the best wine he'd ever tasted! Jesus always gives us His best!! He is our joy!!!
