Thursday, March 26, 2020  

Today’s Hymn
He came from heaven’s throne
salvation to bestow;
the world that was his own
would not its Savior know.
But O my Friend,
my Friend indeed,
who at my need
his life did spend!

“My Song Is Love Unknown” (v. 2) by Samuel Crossman
Hymn 209, Glory to God: The Presbyterian Hymnal

Reflection
Of all the descriptions of Jesus—as Savior, Son, God, Shepherd, Master, Lord, Word, Love, and so on—one that is perhaps the most accessible and tangible to us is Friend. For what is a friend? A friend is one who shares the ups and downs of life with us. A friend is one who is there when needed. A friend can be counted on to love us as we are and to stick with us. A friend is a hand to hold when we’re frightened, or to grasp in sharing our joys. A friend is there to see us through uncertainties and offer calming words. A friend sits by our bedside when we’re ill. A friend cries with us when we grieve and holds us close. A friend laughs with us at our foibles and cheers us on as we chase our dreams. A friend can bring a smile to our face and help us laugh when we are down and depressed. A friend can pick up the relationship with ease no matter the passage of time. A friend is a person we value and trust. A friend is not distinguished by an expectation that they will get something in return. A friend is unselfish. A friend shares in and is part of our life story.

As we go through life, we meet many people, many just in passing. We get to know some and build a circle of acquaintances. Yet there are really only a relative few who can carry the name of “friend” and all it truly means. 

In this hymn we sing a song of recognition. It’s a recognition of the ever-presence of Jesus standing by our side in the most human way imaginable. “O my Friend, my Friend indeed.” 

Prayer
Thank you, Jesus, for being my first and dearest friend. I am grateful for and in awe of your mysterious omnipresence, I humbly ask that you stay close to my heart each day and nourish my soul with your boundless love and profound friendship. Amen.

Written by Cris Ohr, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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