Active Theology

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13, ESV)

College was a really unique season of life. Making friends and building relationships felt really easy. At least it did for me. I was surrounded by like-minded people with flexible schedules and a similar approach to procrastinating on assignments. The transition into adult life made me realize how amazing and special that season of life was. 

I still maintain friendships in my current stage of life, but it seems to take much more planning and forethought. It’s truly amazing that Jesus had 12 friends (3 of them being considered close friendships). I’m thankful for the friendships I have in my adult life.

I meet with my friend, Andrew, once a month. Sometimes we have to skip a week or a month depending on schedules or family life. Honestly, sometimes we’ve gone months without seeing each other. But even with long stretches between seeing each other, our time together is so valuable, and I always look forward to it. We are both pastors, former music educators, dads to little kids, and passionate about honoring God in all we do. We talk through marriage, parenting, work, and deep theological questions. Every time I leave, I walk away encouraged, filled up, and more excited to continue following after Christ. 

We may not think of it often, but Jesus is a friend to us. Yes, he is Jesus Christ our Redeemer and Savior. But if you look at the words Jesus spoke to his disciples in John 15:12-17, he uses the word “friend” three times. Verse 13 has so much packed into it. We often read this passage and just think of Jesus’ death on the cross. He died for our sins and redeems us, but there’s more. Jesus laid His life down for us. Jesus is also stating that He is our friend. He wants a close and personal relationship with us.

My time with Andrew happens (at best) once a month. If Jesus is our friend, then we have the opportunity to spend unlimited and intentional time with Him. I encourage you to do just that this week. Plan for a consistent time and place where you meet with Jesus by reading Scripture and praying. I guarantee that He’ll meet you there. He’s always available. When I walk away from my time with Andrew, I’m encouraged and filled up. How much better will the encouragement be if we’re spending time with Jesus, our Redeemer and friend?! 

Pray: God, thank you for your son, Jesus. I thank you for His sacrifice on the cross that redeems me, saves me, and gives me a new hope and a new life. I thank you for this ultimate act of love. Through this act of love, we are able to call Jesus friend, be in relationship with Him, and always have Him near. Help me to find comfort and peace in that this week. Amen. 

Song:  “Gracious Redeemer” by Austin Stone Worship and “What a Friend I Have in Jesus” by the Sing Team

Craig is a worship pastor at Wallula Christian Church and the creator of Active Theology. He loves coffee dates with his wife, reading, and riding his bike. A few of his favorite things are third wave coffee, vanilla ice cream, and plain t-shirts.