Monday, October 29, 2012

That's What Friends Are For

"Are you sorry you're my friend today?" she asked.

Some days are tough as friends. It's hard to watch each other struggle and weep and have no words to soothe. It's hard if you don't see eye to eye, if you can't explain yourself in a way the other understands. It's tough when past experiences cloud your perspective, when personal weaknesses get in the way.

But love is stronger.

So when the question came--Are you sorry you're my friend today?--the answer was easy.

"Never," came the reply, "I'm never sorry to be your friend."

For Peter tells us, "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."

We're human. We're gonna mess it up. We're going to say the wrong thing and hurt each other and disappoint. But if we're committed to God, at our cores we are the same, no matter our opinions or background or unique vantage with which we view life. If we love God and want to do right by Him, our hearts lean toward each other. We choose to love each other. Deeply.

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

The beauty of friendship is undeserved deep love, the kind of love given at the cross, the love shown to us by a merciful, gracious heavenly Father. We are His children when we go and do likewise, when we love deeply.

That's what friends are for.

Our love displays His love. We are His vessels. So though it may be scary, we need to emulate our Lord. Dare to love deeply. Risk getting hurt. Endure the awkward conversations and deafening silences. Love even when it's hard.

That's what friends are for.



Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 4:8

Photo Credit: Xenocryst @ Antares Scorpii

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