Dave spoke this morning at Cherry Tree Court from John 15:9-17, reminding us of the amazing truth that we are chosen by God – not simply to be His servants, but also to be His friends.
It’s very easy for us not to feel special or valuable, simply because we don’t have many friends or much experience of being chosen. Jesus has chosen us to be His friends, however – despite knowing all about us, warts and all! We are of value and worth to the Son of the Living God.
Often, our own sense of inadequacy stops us accepting the friendship which is offered to us, however. We can be suspicious of those who offer us friendship, fearing that we are accepted because of what we can do rather than because of who we are. God chooses us not for our abilities or simply to ‘make up the numbers’, but because He loves us so much that He wants us to be His friends and to share His love with all. Jesus is not only an example to us but is our companion through every season of life. His love for us is so great that He laid down His life for us, opening heaven’s gates for us and giving us His own joy.
We become a friend of Jesus simply by accepting His offer of friendship. It’s an offer that’s too good to refuse!