At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Luke 1:39-41

You know that feeling: the one where you walk into a room and know you’re sticking out like a sore thumb. Maybe you had a hard time making friends as the new kid at school; perhaps you’ve been in the same situation as an adult as the new guy or girl at work. Maybe you’ve encountered a group of parents at the park/kids’ sports practice/birthday party and were made aware that you didn’t belong there.

You also know this feeling: the one when you walk into a room and know you’ve found your people. It’s happened at several different points in my life, and I hope it has in yours, too. I don’t think such things happen by mistake--just look at these verses describing the relationship between Mary and Elizabeth: both were unexpectedly expecting babies under nonconventional circumstances, and neither was likely to find camaraderie with anyone but each other. Even Elizabeth’s unborn baby recognized that God- ordained friendship is a beautiful thing!

Last week I wrote about “framily.” (Friends + family = framily!) Our frequent moves mean I’ve had the opportunity to find my people--my framily! --all over the country. It’s true that God had His hand in my finding them in each new place, but it also took effort on my part. I lean toward introvert, especially when in an unfamiliar place or situation. It’s easy to isolate oneself, and January in North Dakota made staying home extra appealing! I overcame inertia and ended up finding life-long friends in the most unlikely of places. The bottom line: if I can do it, so can you! 

Have you found your people?

If you haven’t found your people: are you seeking them out? Are you looking for them in the right places? The angel of the Lord told Mary about Elizabeth’s pregnancy, then Mary went for a visit. (What if Mary had chosen to stay home?) It’s so simple, it’s easy to overlook, but have you asked God to show you your people?

If you’ve found your people: fantastic! Godly friendship is a true blessing. What are you doing to cultivate those relationships? Do you celebrate one another, share in the burdens and joys of life together?