For You From The Word
The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, “Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.” (Luke 7:34, NIV)
For You To Think About
Second in a series of Birthmothers’ Core Values – the beliefs that drive our service to those who face an unplanned pregnancy
Friendship – a supportive relationship between people who care about each other – makes an overwhelming difference for those in need.
A difference between life and death.
If you knew there was an 83% chance that your friendship could help someone choose life, you’d proceed, wouldn’t you? Jesus did.
Over and over, Jesus’ loving friendship changes lives. He accepted Zaccheus, spent time with him, and later Zaccheus’ life was transformed (Luke 19:1-10.) Jesus befriended the woman at the well who later shared about Him with her entire village (John 4.) Jesus was called “a friend of sinners” because he didn’t limit His relationships to those considered to be good people, but offered the hand of friendship to anyone who would receive it (Luke 7:34.)
Three-quarters or more of those who come to Christ do so through a relationship with a friend, relative, or co-worker who invested in them (according to evangelist Luis Palau’s report and an Institute of American Church Growth study).
When Christ-followers invest in friendships with others, the joy we have in God cannot but help spill over to them. A caring friend is one of the most powerful vehicles God uses for sharing His love with the world.
Those who face an unplanned pregnancy are in great need of friendship. In fact, 83% of women who terminate a pregnancy say they would make a different choice if they had the support of a caring person.
God’s message of forgiveness and love is best transferred in personal, supportive relationships.
For You To Pray
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Jesus’ example that models a loving, caring friend. Use me to be a friend to a woman or man who faces an unplanned pregnancy. Let me reflect Your love and forgiveness.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
More about How We Serve
How We Serve Part 5: We Offer Adoption
How We Serve, Part 4: We are Unified