The Ministry of Friendship

The couple showed up out of the blue for an evening service. As I approached them it was easy to tell that they wanted to talk to me but were a little nervous. He grew up in the US, she was a first generation immigrant. They found us through an internet search. After exchanging some various casual comments, I asked the question.

“So what brings you here? What are you looking for?”

She quickly responded with the directness and openness I often see in millennial-aged families.

“We have lived here for two years and we have no friends—none.”

Just like that, they invited us into their lives and hearts.

This is not a unique conversation. I have had nearly identical conversations with other young couples who are now deeply connected to our congregation. We live in an age of opportunity. People—especially young people—have been disconnected from family and social groups. Social media cannot provide the community young couples desire—especially young couples just beginning the parenting journey. We not only can see people like this saved, but relationships built and lives transformed as long as we are willing to invite precious people like this into our friendship circles.

This does not take much talent or loads of money. We do not have to be marketing wizards or have slick promotional materials. You can even be an introvert and do this. What we have to do is make time for people. Remember them. Include them. Pray with them. Weep with them. And most of all—love them.

The ministry of friendship does come with risk. We risk the potential of being rejected. They want friends, but what if they do not want me? What if they do not like me? I had to come to terms with the fact that not everyone is going to like me, and that is OK. If not me, I will try to help them find someone with whom they can connect. It really is a simple concept, but it works in our present culture and it makes a difference for eternity.

Oh, and it is biblical.

Jesus, what a Friend of sinners, Jesus lover of my soul.

Jesus was called a Friend of Sinners by his enemies (Matthew 11:16-19) and yet it was through those friendships that He forged effective ministry. A church with people who will receive people into God-honoring relationships will make a difference in its community.

Have you made any new friends lately?