Playing Dirty

During my secondary school days, a few of my ‘FRIENDS’ and I formed a small group with the sole purpose of winning election into school prefect positions. 

I learnt a lot from that small group. We had a simple agreement on “power sharing formula” – contest this time, I will support you, you will step aside for me next election. It seemed perfect when it was made. We all agreed. We all signed. We all supported. But when the stepping aside time came, you could guess what happened...playing dirty, you see!

This was not the kind of friendship Jesus had with John the beloved.

Think about friendships that you enjoy and the intimate nature of friendship may become clear. You probably share things with your friends that you would not share with strangers or even your siblings. You may have shared things in confidence with a close friend that you would not want others to know. By nature, friendship is an intimate, personal relationship between people who trust each other. This was the kind of friendship the disciples found in Jesus, one devoid of betrayals and unfaithfulness.

Friends lay down their lives for each other in many ways. In addition to offering financial help, it may involve taking time out of a busy schedule to listen to a friend who needs to talk. It may involve sharing our time to attend an event with a friend or giving ourselves in a number of other ways. When we do these things, we reflect the love of Christ. We also show friendship in a way that is more than just words. Our sacrifice actions prove the sincerity of our friendship.

If you have come to faith in Christ, let His love be seen in your personal relationships. Instead of merely make friends for yourself, make them for Jesus as well. Through friendship, point your friend to the Saviour. Realise that both types of friendships – with other people and with the Lord – are closely related. Consider ways you can develop a closer relationship with Christ and seek to show His love. Never take the value of friendship lightly. Treasure your friendships and try to develop new ones.

Work at being a true friend. Hook up with Jesus. Stay Hooked to Him.