Matthew 22:37-38 (NIV)

"Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment."

Friendship with Jesus entails a deep loyalty and commitment, much like any meaningful relationship. Jesus calls us not just to follow Him but to walk closely with Him in every aspect of our lives. In return for His sacrifice and love, He desires our wholehearted love and devotion. It’s a beautiful exchange where we offer ourselves completely to Him, and in doing so, we experience the beauty and wonder of friendship with Him.

As we fast and pray this week, let us reflect on this charge to wholehearted devotion and commitment to our Lord. He is not just our Saviour but our dearest friend, always ready to walk with us through every joy and challenge. What a privilege it is to know Him and to be known by Him in such an intimate way.

Reflecting on Wholehearted Friendship

• Deep Loyalty: Friendship with Jesus invites a loyalty that permeates every part of our lives. Just as we value and prioritise our closest earthly relationships, our relationship with Jesus can hold the highest place in our hearts. This means making decisions that honour Him and seeking His guidance in all we do.

2. Wholehearted Love: Jesus invites us to love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind. This encompasses our emotions, our innermost being, and our thoughts. It's an all-encompassing love that goes beyond mere affection or duty. It’s a profound, consuming devotion that influences how we live each day.

3. The Beauty of Exchange: In offering our whole selves to Jesus, we experience a divine exchange. We give Him our worries, burdens, and sins, and in return, He gives us His peace, joy, and righteousness. This reciprocal relationship deepens our bond with Him and allows us to experience His love in transformative ways.