What a Friend We Have in Jesus

"I have called you friends." John 15:15

There is a time in life when friends are everything. For me it started when I was about 10 years old. We had recently relocated to a new place, San Luis Potosi, in Mexico. I attended public school but didn't make any friends. However, I found many friends at church, especially Isaac. He was about my same age and attended the same Sabbath school class as me. We were even baptized the same day. We enjoyed our company doing silly things as normal boys do. Yet after a couple of years we moved to another city, and unfortunately, I lost contact with my best friend, Isaac.

I have another friend, though, who has been with me all my life. Someone I can talk to at any time. Someone that doesn't mind if I'm angry or upset. Someone who cares when I'm sad or worried. Someone who smiles when I'm happy. His name is Jesus.

A few years ago, I discovered that Isaac was living in Houston, just a few hours from San Antonio, where we live. He was married and his children were already teenagers. We reconnected through Facebook and I enjoyed his pictures, which were mostly about catching fish, he had become quite the fisherman.

Right now, unfortunately, Isaac is in intensive care, with COVID-19, fighting for his life. I ask Jesus to put his healing hand over his frail body. I ask Him to renew his strength, to touch his lungs with divine power. I ask Him to give Isaac the air of life he needs. I also ask Jesus to give peace and hope to his dear family as they struggle with fear and uncertainty in their hearts but are always lovingly at his side.

If you, my Facebook friend, are struggling with fear and uncertainty too, I invite you to put your trust in Jesus. If you are suffering a painful illness, rely on Him. You can talk with Him right this moment. Don't wait any longer to cast your cares on Him.

1
What a friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit;
Oh, what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!

2
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness
Take it to the Lord in prayer.

3
Are we weak and heavy laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake you?
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
In his arms he'll take and shield you;
You will find a solace there.

Words by John M. Scriven