Besties

Probably one of the easiest decisions I ever had to make was selecting my maid-of-honor. My sister and I were always very close, so there was no discussion over who would have that place of honor in our wedding. We had so much fun together through high school that people wondered if we were real sisters (as opposed to say, step-sisters). At one party when we were asked that, we pinched each other and said, "Feels real to me" then burst into a fit of giggles. We knew how to have fun together. As with the many things that are different about our personalities, there are equally many the same. She is the one I wanted right by my side as I married my best friend and the love of my life.

The maid-of-honor and best man, while certainly fulfilling a job at the wedding, are usually the best buddies of the bride and groom. They provide support, plan bachelor/bachelorette parties, meet the bride's and groom's needs prior to, during and after the ceremony and oftentimes give speeches or a toast at the reception.

Ayla has selected her media naranja (orange half), Cristina Montoya, as maid-of-honor. Cristina and Ayla have been friends since Ayla went to school in Rhode Island. This spunky duo has checked off items on a summer bucket list, gone on adventures and have regular video visits even though they are 2,600+ miles away from each other, with Cristina in California and Ayla in Florida. Cristina is Ayla's Proverbs 17:17 friend: "A friend loves at all times." 

Anton's best man is Carter Albrecht. Carter and Anton have been "brothers from another mother" since seventh grade. They enjoy playing sports, video games, attending sporting events and can share pretty much everything with one another via deep conversations. Carter is Anton's Proverbs 18:24 friend - "There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother."

there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. - See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Being-A-Friend#sthash.sbfMY3TD.dpuf

Ayla and Anton know the folks they have selected to stand by their side at this wedding will not only be there for them physically, but also emotionally. And both are friends that hold them accountable, as expressed in Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." A best friend is a pretty amazing gift to have in this lifetime. And interestingly, my children are marrying their very best friend. So to have another friend they can count on through thick and thin makes them doubly blessed. Everyone should be so fortunate to have such a relationship. Praying the Lord crosses your path with sweet souls your whole life through no matter where you go.

Discussion: Tell about friends you have had throughout your life. What makes your best friend your best friend?

Prayer: Father, we thank you for the souls you have brought into our lives that have meant so much to us. We pray for blessings on their lives as they have blessed us so. In Jesus, Amen.