July 29, 2012 by Erin

Character

Yesterday, I stood with my best friend as she took a new name. Thinking back over everything, in the back seat of CRV somewhere on the New York Thruway, I’m overwhelmed by the beauty of it all. Stirring music, words of covenant, Elisabeth in white, a bride adorned and prepared for her groom — glimpses of a deep mystery.

This is not the first time I’ve been a bridesmaid. In fact, this was number 8. I cherish each experience and love each woman who has asked me to be part of her wedding day, but this one is different. I’ve shared in it differently, and the tears that are still intermittently clouding my eyes remind me there’s more to this story than a ceremony.

Elisabeth and I met seven years ago in the common room of Kresge 2nd West. As I sat in a circle of freshman girls in our residence hall, I never could have known the kind of journey I had in front of me, or that the red-head sitting across from me would be so much a part of it. Over the next four years, she became my best friend. It all started when we bonded over our mutual love for George Bush. Eventually, we earned the nickname “E Squared.” We shared our hearts and our closets. She kept me responsible and I kept her sane. After graduation we decided to keep it going and be “adult friends.”

Thanks to the wonders of gmail chat, Elisabeth is still part of my every day life, despite a thousand mile separation. We really have become adults, amazingly, commiserating about car payments and such. And the older I get, the more I see the value in having people around you who have seen your story unfold. Elisabeth really knows me, and she’s been part of God shaping me into the woman he means me to be. She’s one of very few people to whom I can say, “No, I’m not alright.” And I know her. I know she picks her nails and stresses easily and likes caramel macchiatos. I’ve seen her curly hair combed out to an impossible size. And I know, to my thrill, that Ben is perfect for her.

Because of all this, rejoicing with her is easy. I remember when she first mentioned Ben, and I remember the day she told me she was in love. Yesterday, as they stood together at the altar, I stood amazed at God’s faithfulness. He is so very good, and my heart swells with joy to see Elisabeth step so beautifully into this new chapter. Her wedding itself pointed to Jesus, the true Groom who longs to be one with his bride. And I was thinking, that’s my favorite part of my friendship with Elisabeth — it points me to Jesus.

For all our similarities, we sometimes see things very differently. I love that. Because I know Elisabeth, I see parts of God’s character I would not see on my own. She shows me gentleness and reminds me to keep my heart soft. I know Jesus better because of our friendship. And isn’t that how it’s supposed to be? It’s amazing that God uses us in each other’s lives to reveal himself. Why would he do that, when I know I have misrepresented him and hurt so many of even my dear friends? But, he must have thought it was worth the risk. When I think of my friendship with Elisabeth, I start to understand why.

So I’m pretty sure I have the best best friend. Even though she’s married now and will probably get all boring. Good thing she’s still got her irresponsible, single friend around.