Welcome to all of our friends who are new to this daily devotion! For those of you who are just joining, I would like to tell you the reason this devotion began. Beginning tomorrow, the devotions will be much shorter, but I felt that it was important to share this with you.

I began this devotional in February specifically for my dear friend Connie Barbier who was diagnosed with cancer for the second time. This devotion was a wonderful way for us to be in touch with each other daily but more importantly for us to be in touch with God daily. Connie saw many miracles in her battle with cancer, and she was able to accomplish things that were only possible through God. Last week, on December 21, she entered into eternal life with Jesus. I could not imagine a better way for her to spend Christmas.

I had decided that I was no longer going to continue the devotions. This was something that I did for Connie. However, I began to receive beautiful emails and texts from others who received the daily devotion. The devotion started with Connie but grew to almost 40 daily recipients in addition to those it was forwarded to. I feel like God has a purpose for me in writing these devotions, and I appreciate the kind words that have motivated me to continue.

My daughter Rachelle will write the devotions with me, and she is SO thrilled that she has signed us up for an email service and a Facebook Fan Page. (I guess mom's way was antiquated lol. All I can say is, "The pressure is on!").

When Rachelle began to research online websites that provided this service, the Constant Contact website was the best one she came across by far. The name of this online website quickly brought one of our recent devotions on the meaning of Connie's name to mind. Last week, we learned that Connie's name means CONSTANT. The symbolism was so evident. We had planned to dedicate the messages to Connie, and we truly believe that God orchestrated all of this in order for Connie's story to continue touching lives.

Webster's Dictionary defines CONSTANT as --- marked by firm steadfast resolution or faithfulness : <a constant friend>. When we read this definition, the words CONSTANT FRIEND truly resonated in our hearts and minds. We both agreed that the messages should be entitled "Constant Friend."

I must say that I was extremely fortunate to have a Constant Friend in Connie. She always tried her best to be there when I needed her, and I did the same for her. Although we did our best, there were times when we could not be there for each other due to the circumstances of life. However, I would like to assure you that there is someone who longs to form a close relationship with you AND His presence in your life is not hindered by life's circumstances. He IS always available and willing to answer your call.

My challenge to you this morning is to nurture your relationship with Jesus by spending time with Him. Just as a genuine friendship develops over years of contact with a special individual, it is vital that we purpose to remain in "Constant Contact" with Him!!!!