What a Friend We Have

There is a popular Christian spiritual called What a Friend We Have in Jesus. When I first heard this song, many years ago as a teenager, I wondered why the song's author referred to Jesus as a friend instead of Savior, King, Messiah or some other term befitting the Son of God. At the time, I felt that the word "friend" sounded too human. "Friend" implied someone capable of giving and receiving emotion...a person who was there through thick or thin, and would not depart when the going got tough; then I thought of my own best friend. Growing up, my good friend, Crystal, was an important part of my life. To this day I still treasure our friendship. Could it be that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, could be as close to me, and as important a part of my life as my best friend Crystal, I thought? The answer was yes. And beyond.

When we study the Bible, we come to better understand the character of Jesus - not just as the Son of God, but as one who was formed of flesh and blood. During his time on earth, Jesus ate, drank, bathed, worked, slept, and experienced all the emotions every human being experiences in a lifetime. The Bible reveals that Jesus' character was compassionate, patient, forgiving, humble, faithful, righteous, and loving. So loving in fact, that he gave his life for all of mankind.

Jesus' character did not change after his crucifixion. For those who place their faith and trust in him, Jesus is indeed a dear friend. He is a source of comfort, joy, peace, love, and--something an earthly friend cannot offer--salvation.

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Contributed by Melanie Schurr (Copyright (c)2005 Melanie Schurr) Melanie Schurr is author of "Ecstatic Living: A Christian marriage manual and Life-guide", "Son Salutations" and "Daily Contemplations", a collection of read-one-a-day modern inspirations. For more information, visit http://www.melanieschurr.com