Friendship

I was the new teacher in the school, and it was a first-year class. Her personal name was Jacqueline – I can’t remember her surname! I had been trying to illustrate some point or other, and had started a comment with the words, “I used to have a friend …” At that point I stopped, put on a sort of ‘hang-dog’ look, and continued “… it was nice while it lasted. Maybe, some day, I’ll find another friend!”

Most of the class seemed to see the amusing side of the statement but, at the end of the period, Jacqueline hung behind as the class was dismissed. “Yes, Jacqueline,” I asked, “What can I do for you?” “Please, sir,” she replied, “I’m sorry you haven’t got any friends. I’ll be your friend”

Well, as you may imagine, it was only my professionalism that stopped me from taking that sweet child in my arms, and giving her the biggest hug that I possibly could. However, I will never forget Jacqueline and her unsolicited offer of friendship, that was genuine and sincere.

I wonder, are you in need of a friend? In the midst of all of the turmoil that is the frequent experience of many of us; even when, sometimes, we think that all we want is to be left alone; Jesus extends His nail-scarred hand, offers to be your Friend, and invites you to be His friend. He says to those who become His disciples, “I have called you friends, for the things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.” (Jn.15:15). We have a choice – to keep to ourselves, or to open our hearts to a friendship of unlimited love and guidance.

Joseph Scrivens wrote those well-known words: “What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer.”

Jesus longs to be your Friend. Will you respond, positively, and be His? Will you?