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BECOMING A FRIEND

  • Writer: Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
    Olufunmilayo Adekusibe
  • Jul 23
  • 2 min read

Today’s Readings:

Acts 1:15-17,20-26

Psalm 113:1-8

John 15:9-17


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  • True friendship is founded on trust.

  • You keep no secrets from your true friend.

  • You are your true self with your true friend.

  • True friends see each other as equals.

  • True friends respect each other’s boundaries.

  • You are willing to make sacrifices for your friend.

  • You are willing to stake your life and reputation for your friend.

  • You give your true friend the benefit of the doubt.

  • Your true friend will never hurt you intentionally.

  • Your true friend will brush ego aside and reconcile with you.


Recently, the feast of Saint Matthias was celebrated, the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal and death, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1:15-17,20-26). Unlike the other apostles, Matthias’s calling was unique. He was not invited directly by Jesus during His earthly ministry. He was selected by the remaining Eleven through prayer and the casting of lots, after Christ’s Ascension.


In today’s Gospel, we hear Jesus say, “You are my friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:14). Matthias was welcomed into that sacred circle of friendship; a friendship rooted not in status or merit, but in fidelity to Christ and His call. When we reflect on those whom Jesus called His friends, we see that the Twelve apostles were ordinary men, fishermen, workers, tax collectors, with no special qualifications. Yet, Jesus chose precisely them to walk closely with Him, seeing beyond their limitations ... to the potential within. His friendships extended beyond the Twelve to include Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, showing that His circle was wide, diverse, and open to all who welcomed Him.


Christ reveals that friendship is the highest form of relationship He offers: not servitude, but a deep, personal sharing in His love and intimacy with the Father. To be called a friend of Christ is to be drawn into the very heart of God, participating in His life and mission. Are you making an effort to be friends with Christ?

JUDE-MARY OWOH



To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”

If you said the prayer, Congratulations! You are welcome to the body of Christ. Prayerfully seek out a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor, or priest.



Prayer:

  1. Eternal Father, I crave friendship and companionship, which is sometimes selfish and even destructive. I see that true friendship is meant to build me up and bring me true peace. Help me strive daily to be friends with Your Son, by allowing His love to fill my heart and transform me, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

  2. Sweet Saviour Divine, be my friend, make me loving, selfless, trustful, dependable and a source of blessing for everyone I meet, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

 
 
 

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