Focus: Who Are Your Friends?

Text: Mk.2:4

"And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay."

One paralyzed man had four friends in his life. These four friends were able-bodied men, but he wasn't. He had paralysis and body deformity, yet his friends remained true to him.

Three things mark his friends out. They had LOVE for him. They had FAITH in Christ. They had HOPE that their steps of faith would yield the best outcome in their friend's favor.

Their love was fervent. Their faith was daring. Their hope was grand.

They didn't just believe in Christ; they also acted upon their faith. They didn't just have faith; it was the kind of faith that took risks. They didn't just love their friend; they also demonstrated it. They carried him to Jesus, who alone could deliver him. Their love can be described as "the labor of love." Their faith can be described as "the work of faith." Also, their hope can be described as "the patience of hope," or confident hope (1Thes.1:3).

True faith is creative, inventive and innovative. True faith must always find ways to get things done.

They broke the roof of a house not their own for the sole purpose of getting help for their friend. They made intense effort and immense sacrifice as a demonstration of their faith in Christ and love for their friend. Luke writes, "And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus" (Lk.5:19). It was a risky move and a bold step of faith. Even when they couldn't find a way, they created a way. That's the innovativeness of faith and the great longing to see their friend delivered by the Lord Jesus Christ, and according to Mark, Christ saw their faith by their action.

Who are your friends? Who are you a friend to? What's their commitment level? Do they love you enough to do anything to seeing you go up and do well in life? Do they have faith in Jesus Christ and in His ability to do the impossible? Are they hopeful of the best coming out of your life? Do they dodge making sacrifices for you? 

Well, do your best to be a friend to someone. Be the best you can be for another's good. I pray that you be a good friend to someone and that you find real good friends for yourself in this life. Four men came together, teamed up with each other to help a friend get well. Jesus Christ never fails those who come to Him in faith for help. Be a friend to someone in need. Help a friend out. Your friend needs the help of Jesus Christ now!

by Bishop Moses E. Peter