In 1965 Simon and Garfunkel sang, “I am a rock; I am an island. And a rock feels no pain. And an island never cries.” It was a good song that made a lot of teens feel good and made the entertainers a great deal of money. The only problem is that for the vast majority of human beings the concept is a lie. I’m not a rock or an island, nor will that ever happen. We certainly feel pain and crying is a necessity sometimes.
I need people. I need friendship. I need to feel like I am a part of something greater than I am. God made us that way, and thus the island-rock model can’t possibly work.
My many friends have been used to carry me through difficult times. My family is a major part of who I am today. The church family has taught me faith, hope and security. No, I am far from a rock or an island.
Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times,
And a brother is born for adversity.
A friend is always loyal,
and a brother is born to help in time of need.
Psalms 68:6
God places the lonely in families;
He sets the prisoners free and gives them joy.
But He makes the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.
John 15:13
There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
Even Jesus had friends. Are you one?
Think about it.
Gary