“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Proverbs 17:17 (NIV)
Today’s verse speaks to the two types of relationships: friends and siblings. We need both. Friends are those with whom we share the joys of everyday moments. Even when time and distance keep us apart, when we reconnect, it's as if time has passed. They love us unconditionally for who we are, whatever happens in our lives. Siblings, or those who become like family, love us nonetheless but are the ones we know we can count on when the going gets tough. They are the first ones you call when you receive that call from the doctor saying they spotted something unusual during a routine exam.
The practice of calling one another “sister” and “brother” began with the early church and continues in many churches today. In Mark 3:34-35, when Jesus was told his mother and brothers were outside, he looked at those around him and replied, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” In the epistles, the authors frequently address the recipients of their letters as “brothers and sisters.” This familiarity emphasized that spiritual connection transcended biological relationships and geographical boundaries, connecting all believers as a family in the kingdom of God.
Both friends and siblings play unique and essential roles in our lives. Friends are those special individuals who share in the everyday joys and challenges. They are the ones who make us laugh, support our dreams, and stand by us through thick and thin. Their unconditional love and companionship enrich our lives in countless ways. Siblings, whether by blood or by bond, provide a different kind of support. They are the ones we turn to in moments of adversity, offering a shoulder to cry on and a comforting presence when we face life's toughest challenges. Together, friends and siblings create a tapestry of love and support that sustains us.
The Church is comprised of both friends and family. We share our joys and concerns, study, pray, and worship together. We also break bread together–at the altar, when we celebrate communion, and at potlucks and coffee hours. We do this in the example of Jesus, who referred to his followers as not only family but friends, “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” John 15:14-15 (NIV) By calling us friends, Jesus emphasizes the close, personal, and loving relationship we have with Him.
As we navigate life's journey, let us value and nurture the relationships that bring us joy, comfort, and strength. Whether it's a friend who loves us at all times or a sibling who stands by us in adversity, these bonds are precious gifts that enrich our lives.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of relationships that enrich our lives and bring us closer to You. We are grateful for the friends who love us unconditionally and the siblings who stand by us in adversity. Help us to cherish and nurture these bonds, reflecting Your love and grace in all our interactions. May we continue to grow in unity and support each other as one family in Christ. Bless our friends and siblings and guide us to be sources of strength and encouragement for them. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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