Lonely with Friends.

This isn't a pity post or a way of extracting more attention from people close with me. I'm just in a interesting mood today that has helped me rediscover something. Have you ever felt like this? Have you ever felt like you were surrounded by people you love and yet at the same time, felt kind of lonely? My wife and I have had this conversation numerous times before and I'm glad we did. I don't know that I would have brought this up with anyone if I didn't think anyone else ever felt this way. I feel weak and foolish when I get like this. I feel kind of like I shouldn't be so selfish and learn to just be content. However, feeling lonely within the proximity of loved ones reminds me of something else entirely today as well. We are created with a deep need to be near our Creator. The reason we are created like this is because He wants to be near us. The longing for relationship here is deep in our souls like a dry and thirsty seed well within the very center of desert. I really believe that there is a level of relational need that no human can meet for another human. I don't think this is an accident or fluke either. I think God has given us a hunger to be near him because He is hungry to be near his people and meet this need. As uncomfortable as moments of loneliness can be, may they be a reminder that the One who created us is constantly pursuing and desiring the company of his beloved children.