Is Jesus Your Friend?

When I thought about what I could share with you today—and how I might invite you into a closer relationship with Jesus—I remember when He said " Now I called you Friend".

There are many stories in the Bible that speak of friendship. I think of the friends who lowered their paralyzed companion through the roof so he could meet Jesus and be healed. Or how Philip introduced Nathanael to Jesus (John 1:43–51). In both stories, good friends led others to Jesus. That should tell us something: good friends bring us closer to Jesus, and Jesus brings us closer to God.

Jesus himself said, “You are my friends if you do what I command” (John 15:14–15). But friendship with Jesus requires something of us—it calls for time, honesty, joy, and an open heart. We must be willing to come as we are, daily, and surrender our pride in His presence. It's in that surrender that we are broken, and through that brokenness, we are transformed.

We all have something that needs to change—our character, our mindset, our heart. Even in the story of Nathanael under the fig tree, Jesus said, “I saw you”—reminding us that He sees us, fully and completely. That should give us the courage to trust Him.

So let me ask you: Do you really trust Jesus? Do you trust Him enough to show Him who you truly are? Or are there still parts of you you’re hiding—fear, shame, or the desire to seem perfect?

Psalm 51:17 says:

“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.”

And Jeremiah 29:13–14 reminds us:

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord.

Jesus isn’t asking us to show up with masks or pretend to be perfect. He came for sinners—for you and me (Luke 5:32). He was called a friend of sinners. Not because He joined in their sin—He is holy—but because He walked alongside them, spoke truth, and showed the way to God.

Jesus extended mercy and called people to repentance—especially those who had made mistakes. He longs to forgive. We often act as if others are unclean or unworthy of God because they don’t know Him. But the truth is, we are all welcome in His presence. What Jesus desires is genuine transformation.

Most of His apostles had a messy past:

• Matthew collected unfair taxes from his own people.

• Zacchaeus, another tax collector, was dishonest and unpopular (Luke 19:1–10).

• Mary Magdalene, once known for her bad reputation, became one of Jesus’ most faithful followers (Luke 8:2).

And that’s the power of the Gospel: Transformation.

Jesus’ friendship made people better. He sanctified us with His presence. And that's what He wants to give you—a life that is holy, intimate, and full of meaning. He wants your life to have a purpose deeper than a job, a car, a house, or a full bank account.He wants your heart. Today is the day! :)