stephen R Harrison

Joy From Jesus: Day 1

Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice. -Proverbs 27:9

“It’s hard to make new old friends.” That saying has escaped me over the last few years. I’ve made several new friends in recent years, but after moving, I’ve neglected some of the deep connections I had with longtime friends. I have missed them and the joy they bring. Friends who were at my wedding, my kids’ births, and in our small group. Friends who attended my parents’ funerals, and I attended theirs. Friends with whom I’ve shared highs and lows. Friends who showed up, no questions asked. Friends who’ve shared laughs, tears, and allow us to be ourselves. Friends who get us. There’s nothing like good friends. 

I often think about Jesus’ friends. Mary, Martha, Lazarus, Zachaeus. He considers us friends (John 15:15). I’m rediscovering the joy of Jesus-centered friendships. We celebrated New Year’s Eve with some lifelong friends – what a blast! Thank God for them! I’ve lost a couple of good friends this past year and preached their funerals. They reminded me of God’s blessing of good friends. Proverbs 27:9 says pleasantness springs from their advice. I’ve committed to investing more in friendships this year. We must not take them for granted. 

Teach us, Lord, the joy of friendships. 

Who are your closest friends? How are you investing in them? How do they bring the joy of Jesus to your life?