He Calls Us Friend

You are my friend if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. – John 15: 14-15

Friendship is a noun – at least that’s how you will find it listed in the dictionary. I, however, think it’s a verb because it requires action in order to be successful. This unique bond grows between individuals is the most cherished gift we have. Those who choose to be our friends are always by our side. They may not ultimately agree with all we do, but they are supportive. Some may be quiet, while others laugh at your jokes when no one else finds them funny. However, the mark of a real friend is one who can lovingly rebuke you when necessary.

I had the pleasure of talking with a wonderful friend whom I’ve not seen in months. When I speak with her it’s as though no time has passed. We simply pick up where our last conversation ended. There is laughter, sometimes tears, but through it all, there is a wonderfully deep bond. I completely trust her and her judgment. She can speak frankly knowing she won’t offend me.

There are times when I am alone at home and the house is completely silent. Within moments of the onset of silence, my head fills with the laughter and voices of my friends. The silence has been broken. Even when they are not physically in my presence, they are with me.

This is the relationship every Christian should have with God. At any given time we should be able to close our eyes and hear His voice – feel His presence. This is one friend who never leaves our side.

When Jesus spoke with His disciples, He told them there was no greater love than that of a friend who would lay their life down for them. And within a few words, He actually called His disciples “friends.” Though He spent huge amounts of time training them for the continuance of His ministry, He taught them to be servants, to be faithful to the word, and He taught them to be friends.

Jesus shared all He had with His disciples, and then He went a step further – to die for them. Though His death, the bonds of friendship were made eternal. It’s a great comfort to know the Son of God not only considers us friends, but that He calls us friend as well. Ever present, ever listening, all knowing – our Lord and Savior, our friend, is constantly with us.

We are blessed beyond measure to have the love of such a great God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we are honored that You call us friend. Thank you for Your active presence in our lives.