I Call You Friends

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Scripture: John 15:15

I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father, I have made known to you.

Devotion:

What a profound shift Jesus expresses in these words: “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends.” In a single sentence, He lifts His followers out of the shadows of mere obedience and invites them into the warmth of intimacy, trust, and shared purpose.

In ancient times, servants knew their place. They followed orders, carried out tasks, and, though valued, rarely entered into the confidences of their master. They participated in the house's activities but not in its heart. By contrast, friendship is a relationship of mutual vulnerability, delight, and communication. Friends are let in; they are given access to the intentions, dreams, and concerns of the other. The words of Jesus unlock a new way of belonging—a relationship not defined by duty alone but by love and revelation.

Jesus did not withhold knowledge or keep His followers at a distance. “Everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” The mysteries of God’s heart, the plans for His kingdom, the nature of redemption—all these Jesus entrusted to His disciples. In doing so, He calls us today beyond the posture of mere servants, reminding us that we are invited to draw near, to listen, and to grow in the knowledge of God’s heart.

So, what does it mean, practically, to be called a friend of Jesus? It means that we are welcomed into an honest conversation with Him. We can pour out our concerns, joys, questions, and even our doubts, knowing that He listens with the attentive ear of a friend. It means that our relationship with God is not simply a list of rules or rituals; it is rooted in love and understanding. Just as Jesus shared what was most precious to Him, we too are called to keep nothing back, to walk with Him in transparency and trust.

Friendship with Jesus also shapes how we relate to others. If the Son of God has called us friends, how much more should we extend friendship, grace, and understanding to those around us? In a world hungry for connection but often plagued by loneliness and misunderstanding, our friendship with Christ can be a model and a wellspring from which to draw.

Today, pause and reflect on the astonishing truth that you are called a friend by the Lord of all creation. Let this identity sink in. Approach Christ not as a distant master but as the most faithful friend, and let your life become a reflection of His generous, self-revealing love.

Prayer:

            Lord, we rejoice in the knowledge that we are called your friends. We are undeserving of even the title of servant, yet you go further and adopt us as friends and brethren in your kingdom. Please help us to be good friends, broadcasting the good news of who you are to the entire world. May all that we do or say be edifying to those who hear. Thank you for being our friend. 

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