Something so simple can be so foundational and important. It’s like the bumpers put in the gutters when kids are learning how to bowl ... it keeps things on course. For all three of our kids, a group of peers meet once a week to discuss life and the challenges of high school. Over donuts they would work though a small group study, a Bible study, or have a problem solving session. They kept each other accountable.

Years later Jason’s group periodically gets together, one of Travis’ best friends is from his group and a girl from Jill’s group spent a weekend with her recently. Lifelong bonds are formed when you spend time in the trenches together.

Jim and I are in two small groups. They’re just the adult version of the high school groups. As scheduling worked out, both met yesterday. At lunch our marriage group had the first meeting of our 11th year. Together the three couples have trekked through triumphs, disappointments, births, funerals, health issues, weddings, job changes, cancer, and a heart attack. When life is lived together, deep friendships are forged.

Over the years we have had deep, serious discussions about children, grandchildren, aging parents, and personal challenges. We may not solve things, or come to life changing conclusions, but we have the chance to air our feeling in safety. We’ve learned there’s just no fixing the differences in men and women and have realized we are, after 10 years, still trying to figure out the backseat driving issue.

Last night after an intense discussion about the book of Hebrews and current political issues, our other group broke for cake and more coffee. After sitting for an hour and a half with a large glass of tea, Roxie headed to the powder room only to find it already occupied. So she was directed to another bathroom. She was in such rush she had already unzipped her pants as she walked in the master bath only to find the master himself using the facilities.

Mortified, she ran into the living room laughing so hard she was on the verge of an accident. Luckily the powder room was now vacant. My phone rang in the middle of all of the ruckus. It was Jason. “How are you son? Where are you,” I asked.

“Umm, Mom, the more important question is where are you? What’s going on,” he laughed?

“Oh we’re at Bible study,” I answered.

“Mom, I’m an Army chaplain and I know a Bible study when I hear it and that doesn’t sound like any Bible study.”

I could hear him grinning. He knows small group dynamics.