5 Reasons your FRIENDSHIP is NEEDED right now!

Our world that looks very different than it did before 2020. The host of challenges and changes that COVID-19 ushered in were many: changes in how we speak to others (through masks, zoom calls...), the places we visit (or don't because they are closed or limited capacity), the family members we can hug (or not), the precautions we take on a daily basis and SO much more. Many have experienced hardships: job loss, relational problems escalated by stress, increased rates of depression, suicide, domestic abuse as well as the hurt from divisions in our families, churches, and country. In this dark climate, it is more imperative than ever to rise up and let our light SHINE so that our Father in heaven may be glorified.

It may be a comfort to realize that the world in Jesus' day was also very troubled. In fact, Jesus says John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” As a Jewish man living under Roman occupation 2,000 years ago, there was a continual fear and pressure to conform lest dire circumstances occur. Scenes of roadways covered with unfortunate crucifixion victims were a common site and heavy, unjust taxes were levied making lives even more difficult. It was on this rather gloomy scene that Jesus was birthed into, bringing a beautiful and brilliant ray of light and hope into a dark world. He brought joy when there was not much earthly reason for one. He disappointed his followers who expected him to overthrow their oppressors and bring earthly dominion. Yet, Jesus had something much greater in mind- not just a temporary victory, but an eternal one. Not just an immediate solution to their earthly hardships, but an eternal hope that gave their pain a purpose. After all, these disciples who had forsaken all to follow him. They had put their income, their family lives, their future, and their very health and safety into the hands of the one they recognized as the promised Messiah long foretold by the prophets of old. One by one, all 11 remaining disciples would give their lives unto death for the One who was truly the Way, Truth and LIFE.

Jesus was to his disciples and IS to us who call on him today is the ULTIMATE FRIEND. To his disciples, Jesus says in John 15:15 "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." Indeed he is the friend that sticks closer than a brother Proverbs 18:24. He goes on to say we demonstrate our love for Him by obeying what he says- and he has asked that we love one another. The love He has poured into YOU is NEEDED RIGHT NOW!

Don't belittle what you have. Reject the idea that what you have is too insignificant to make a difference. The parable of the talents demonstrated the tragic consequences of the servant who fearfully and lazily 'buried' what they had been given.

You are fearfully and wonderfully created. There is no one else on this earth with your voice, talents, experiences, and wisdom.You are created in the image of God and His love is able to be UNIQUELY expressed through you in a way that no one else who has ever lived will our could.

You are NEEDED because...

1. Someone you know needs to know there is a SOURCE OF PEACE- Peace is found in the PERSON of JESUS CHRIST- The Prince of Peace. He made peace for us by taking our sin on himself so we could be made right with God and be 'at peace' with Him.

2. Someone you see around you needs HUMAN CONNECTION- to know they are not alone, that they are valuable and loved- to give them a voice to share their thoughts, feelings, and wisdom.

3. Because YOUR SMILE may be just the bit of HOPE and recognition that someone needs in their day and will bring you JOY too :)

4. Because if you love God then you are CALLED to love others- The parable Jesus told of the Samaritan answered the question what love looks like- this man BEFRIENDED another and this was a righteous act of love. Befriend= act as a friend to (someone) by offering help or support.

5. Because as you befriend others (even strangers) through an act of kindness, generosity, support, word of encouragement act of service, etc....you will BE REFRESHED YOURSELF!!! God's kingdom is UPSIDE-DOWN. The wisdom of God is foolishness to men. Proverbs 11:25 says "He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed" and Jesus confirms that the person who wants to save his life will lose it, but whoeer loses his life for His sake will find it (Matthew 16:26 ). It is more blessed to GIVE than to RECEIVE. Indeed, it is in giving that we will experience the JOY, PEACE, and PURPOSE.

We want to hear from you! As you step out of your comfort zone and befriend (act as a support or encouragement to others), contact us and let us know. Thank you for embracing this journey of Friendships in Faith with us.