[Edit: My apologies to our readers and Hannah. This post was written by Hannah Coggin, not Jamie. The name change has been made at the bottom. -Lauren]

Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. John 15:15-16

Thus the day begins as any other, alarms go off, skirts are donned, and half asleep girls stumble down creaking stairs to face the bitterly cold Thursday morning. Once out of the building everything becomes a blur, sights, sounds and smells engulf us. But not for long, we begin to walk and talk amongst ourselves until gradually the group is split. One by one you see them, walking alone, or so it would seem. But we are not alone, we are all walking and talking with out best friend, the one who has called us and loves us for who we are. One who always listens and is there whenever you need Him. And so our day begins.

Cold hands and red faces emerge back through the doors, and we descend down another narrow set of stairs where the rest of our group waits. Some awake and others asleep but all have gathered for the same reason, to begin the day in the word, and encourage one another. Questions are asked and some are answered, but most are left for you to ask your friend, the friend who was not long ago out in the cold talking with you, and the one who is still standing beside you.

Quietly as possible everyone returns to her room, silently scurrying about to make sure everything is in place for the day. Then they sit down with that trusted friend yet again and spend time just getting to know them. Breakfast comes and goes, verses are quoted and papers are gathered for class, all along your friend never leaves your side.

Continually, I find myself talking to Him throughout the day. Asking Him random questions, or just speaking my mind. Voicing my frustrations when my computer would not cooperate during class, or trying to decide on a layout for a presentation. He brought everything together thoughts, passions and a message to share. Not only did He give the message, He included the skills and channel to share it.

Thankfully, it did not stop there; the day has only become better and better. Again we were reminded of the friendship that we have, and how thankful we are for it. Choruses of voices filled the lowest parts of the building, voices singing praises to their best friend, each expressing love in a different way, through uplifted hands and closed tear filled eyes these words rang out sweet and true.

I love you, Lord
And I lift my voice
To worship You
Oh, my soul rejoice!
Take joy my King
In what You hear
Let it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear

Have you talked to this friend lately? Are you reminded throughout the day of all He has done? When was the last time you thanked Him? Take time today and remember all that He has done for you, spend a few moments with Him. He is waiting; will you go?

- Hannah Coggin