Honoring a Friend

Chuckle: "What papers do I need for my trip to England?" a college student asked the travel agent. "A passport and a visa," was the reply. "I already have the passport, but . . . do you think they'd accept MasterCard?"

Quote: "A real friend is the one who will tell you of your faults and follies in prosperity and assist with his hand and heart in adversity." --Unknown source

Mephibosheth knelt down again and said (to King David), "Why should you care about me?" (2 Samuel 9:8 CEV).

One of the most beautiful stories of love and friendship recorded in the Bible involves the friendship between King David and King Saul's son, Jonathan. Their friendship was steadfast even through the most difficult of circumstances. After Jonathan had been killed in battle, David's concern shifted to Jonathan's family and he sought ways to honor Jonathan's memory by bestowing kindness on his descendents. The only one he could find was a son, Mephibosheth, who was crippled from infancy.

When called before the King, Mephibosheth could not believe or understand why the great King should care about him and show such kindness. But because of his love for his friend, David warmly welcomed Mephibosheth into his home and cared for him. This was David's way of honoring his friend. The unconditional love David had for Jonathon was transferred to Mephibosheth who could not understand why David should care about him.

As I read this beautiful story, I was reminded how unworthy I am to be the recipient of God's unconditional love as demonstrated by the sacrifice of Jesus for my sins. "But God demonstrated his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8 NIV). The psalmist questioned why God should care about mankind. "When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, . . .?"  (Psalm 8:3-4 NIV).

No matter how insignificant, unworthy, or unlovable you may feel, any fears you may have regarding God's love for you are unfounded. God has extended you a lasting invitation to come into His presence with assurance and experience His unconditional love through faith in Jesus Christ.

Do you have a precious friend to whom you are deeply indebted for his or her unconditional love, kindness, encouragement, and faithfulness? This story about David, Jonathan, and Mephibosheth should challenges us to examine our friendships and our responsibilities to them and their families. Friendships should never be taken for granted. This Thanksgiving, let’s be thankful for our friends.

Love, Jerry & Dotse