“Let’s consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Heb.10:24-25)
Lord Jesus, of the many gifts you give us in this life, our friendships will keep on giving forever. For everything you’ll already shown us about our coming life in the new heaven and new earth reveals it to be highly relational, and a redeeming, not replacing, of the life we enjoy in this world. Though our relationship with you will fulfill everything marriage is meant to signify in this brief life (Matt.22:30; Eph.5:21-32), we will actually know our spouse better in eternity than we could ever know them in this life, and that’s really awesome.
So, Jesus, as “the friend who sticks closer than a brother,” help us relish, nourish, and flourish our friendships. A sure “recipe for ruin” is having a multitude of acquaintances, but nothing resembling real friendship (Prov.18:24). Make this a big deal for us in 2024. If we’re too busy for Gospel-shaped friendship, we’re not simply too busy. We’re “accidents waiting to happen,” under the spell of the master isolationist (the devil), and more vulnerable than an open jar of honey placed in front of Winnie the Pooh.
Teach us how to “love at all times,” the way you love us (Prov.17:17). We’re not always easy, pleasant, or fun to be with (kindly understated); so thank you for being a friend of “sinners” (Matt.11:19). Show us how to work and fight for each other’s joy, and not just work to make more money and fight to be right (2Cor.1:24).
Teach us the difference between flattery (conflict-avoidant, manipulative, kissing-up), and life-giving encouragement (Heb.3:13). An enemy “multiplies kisses.” But good friends receive and give the kind of heart-wounding that leads to freedom and healing (Prov.27:6).
Jesus, thank you for calling us, and making us your friends (Jn.15:15). We have some friends that don’t know you yet. May 2024 be the year they come to eternal friendship with you. Hallelujah, and So Very Amen.