CWL

A few weeks ago, I was invited to the Christian Women's Luncheon in our town. I didn't even know there was such a thing! A friend of mine from church attends the luncheon, which occurs once a month at the Episcopal Church. I couldn't wait to attend.

It was a rainy, rainy, day that Monday! It wasn't that drizzly kind of rain, either! It was POURING. It was also cold. I have to admit that staying in my yoga pants and fuzzy sweater and covering up with a blanket sounded much better than venturing out in the rain to have lunch with a group of women I didn't even know.

My friend picked me up, and we drove to the church. We parked and then cautiously tiptoed through the small rivers running down the sidewalk. As we entered the room, the aroma of Christmas cookies and candles rushed toward me. The room was warm and welcoming and joyful! What a blessing!

I actually knew quite a few of the women who were in attendance. There were many denominations represented, and many age groups as well. As we gathered around tables and enjoyed the catered lunch, I could feel the kindness and warmth resonating through these women. I'm sure if we had shared our specific denomination beliefs, there would have been many differences. But...we all worshipped the same God and knew Christ as our Saviour. Our hearts were knit together in that blessed way that only the Holy Spirit can bring about.

The speaker was a lovely woman who was the senior pastor in a nearby town. Her joy was contagious as she shared the unique and precious role that Mary played in bringing Christ to earth. She also spoke about God's provision of Elizabeth as a mentor in her life, and the importance of having a mentor of our own.

I know that has been missing in my life. My mom fulfilled that role for me, along with many other amazing women. One that immediately comes to mind is my Sunday School teacher, Bev Weddle, when Michael and I first moved to New Orleans. I was in a huge city, knew no one, and was very lonely and afraid. Bev was also transplanted to Louisiana, and she dove right in and began to serve. She was the model of a godly wife in front of me, and I have never forgotten her.

In this age of technology and information, perhaps the art of mentoring has been somewhat cast aside. If we have a question, we can "google it" or download a book on any subject. We don't have to rely on other women for guidance and help, because we can seek the advice of experts. I'm not sure it's a good thing.

I have begun to pray expectantly and excitedly for a mentor of my very own. Perhaps she will be one of those lovely women I shared lunch with this week. Or maybe God has someone totally different in mind. I just know it is a very right thing to wish and pray for.

Thanks, Louise, for taking the time to pick me up that rainy Monday. God blessed me through you!