Wonderful Lifeness


georgebaily

“ You've been given a great gift, George: A chance to see what the world would be like without you.” Clarence, from It’s a Wonderful Life

It takes two men to make one brother. ~ Israel Zangwill

This past Saturday I was given a wonderful gift. A few weeks ago, God moved on one of my close friends (Tom) to arrange a special time of affirmation and prayer…for me. So, five of my closest friends and myself gathered at Tom’s house for three hours of sharing, prayer and encouragement with yours truly being the center of attention. I was completely blown away at this “It’s a Wonderful Life” moment as friend after friend took the time to share how I have impacted their lives. It was a very humbling experience.

There were humorous stories, some manly tears, huge amounts of encouragement and lots of prayer. Did I mention it was a humbling experience? The gift was more than seeing the impact I have had but also seeing the power of brotherness (yes, I know I have invented two words in this blog post). Father God takes men and (if they’re willing) rolls them into a brother. What a powerful gift!

“When brothers agree, no fortress is so strong as their common life.”
~ Antisthenes

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12

This experience has reinforced my belief in brotherness, a friendship that can be described as a God knot, a cord that combines the best qualities of men together. The life I share with my brothers is a testimony to the Father’s commitment to His sons. I am stronger because of my friendships; they “tie” me to path that makes me a better man.

One more thing about Saturday, not only was I blessed by what my brothers said about me, it was their willingness to share their hearts with me that totally blew me away. I was already committed to them…but now the cord is a little tighter between us.

So my challenge is this…

Let’s find ways to strengthen those cords…

Let’s find voices to encourage…

Let’s find hearts to express how grateful we are for each other…

Let’s spread brotherness around…

Blessings,
Jay

 

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bill (cycleguy) said…
wish I could have been there my friend.  It is cool that you have some  brothers who love you and care for you and will share their hearts with you.  Again, wish I could have been there...if nothing else than to see how it works.  Prayed for you.  BTW: one of my favorite movies.  I watch it every Thanksgiving Day, either by myself or with anyone else who wants to. 
October 4, 2011 at 4:45 AM
Jay Cookingham said…
It would have been awesome to have you there my friend, I don't think I ever felt so honored or humble in my life. And we watch that movie as a family every Christmas season...so many great thoughts and themes in it. Bless ya Bill!
October 4, 2011 at 7:46 AM
jasonS said…
I'm echoing Bill's thoughts, but it would have been incredible to be there. We are to honor where honor is due, and your life is a shining example of God's grace and truth in action. You give generously in your encouragement and blessings of others and it's an honor to call you friend. Thank you for your heart to serve, minister, and press on to the very best God has for you. You are loved and appreciated, Jay. Jehovah Jireh's blessings be yours in abundance...
October 4, 2011 at 2:04 PM
Jay Cookingham said…
Having you there, along with Bill, would have been a blast. At the end of this time, I made everyone sit down and l told each of them what they meant to me...that was a honor as well. I appreciate those kind words Jason and I can repeat them back to you as well. Thanks bro'
October 4, 2011 at 3:01 PM
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