|
Saturday, December 7, 2013
By: Gwen Hitt
Being a Good Friend
John 15:12-13 This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends.
Almost one year ago, my best friend, the inspiration behind the Constant Friend devotions, went on to be with the Lord. For the last few days, I have been reflecting on how much I miss my friend - how much her family is missing her - how much she had done for others in her lifetime.
Today's scripture provides a beautiful description of Jesus' love for us and His greatest desire for our lives. He reveals to us in this scripture that He wants us to love others as He loves us. A love that is so great that He was willing to sacrifice His life for you, for me.
My friend was an exceptional individual. She devoted her entire life to helping others ... She was the type of person who would do anything for anybody in need. Her family and friends knew that she could be counted on in their times of distress ... knew that she would be willing to put their needs before her own.
At this time of the year, there are many individuals who are experiencing dire circumstances. Individuals who need a touch from someone ... who need to know that someone cares. Individuals that Jesus is counting on you to lay down your life for them.
The greatest gift that we can give to Jesus during this Christmas season as well as throughout the year can be found in Matthew 25:37-40, "Then the righteous will answer Him, `Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink? When did we see You a stranger and invite You in, or needing clothes and clothe You? When did we see You sick or in prison and go to visit You?' The King will reply, `I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me'."
My challenge to you today is to live your life as my friend did - as Jesus is urging you to do. Take some time during this Christmas season to touch the lives of those who are in need. You will be doing this FOR HIM, FOR THEM, and FOR YOURSELF!
Dear Lord, I am so grateful for the opportunities that You make available to me to function as Your hands and feet. Help me to always be the type of friend to those in my life that You are to me.
I also thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life. | 
