There is probably nothing more reassuring about our tight friendships than accessibility. Good friends are available any time of the day or night, convenient or inconvenient. It is one of the reasons we value our close relationships so highly.

There is probably nothing more unsettling than approaching the throne of God with a feeling of unworthiness. But Jesus has invited us as friends. He sees and knows everything we have thought, said or done…ever. As Christians, we come to Jesus forgiven and fully accepted because He has paid and settled our debt.

He invites us to come boldly. That word means freely, with unrestrained speech.

We do not need to earn the right or privilege to speak freely with Jesus. It is faith in Jesus, not our performance, that guaranteed us this friendship. In Jesus’ day, the term access referred to a formal introduction to a monarch. It’s official – when we put our faith in Christ, we’re in…and welcome to be there.

In light of that acceptance, what expression do you expect to see on Jesus’ face when you stand before Him? He has emotions. Delight, compassion, joy and love are the most common expressions. At worst, sorrow over our sin. Certainly, concern about our circumstances. But, never disappointment, anger, disgust or rejection.

Friendship with Jesus grows and deepens through our time in His presence. Just as our earthly friendships deepen as we spend meaningful time together, so does a friendship with Jesus deepen as we spend time with Him in prayer and Bible reading (where He speaks to us).

This passage refers to an eternal purpose carried out in Christ Jesus. As God unfolded the mysteries of history, He made it evident that Jesus came for both Jew and Gentile, that Jesus accepted anyone who put their faith in Him.  

Today’s devotional is one of five this week on “A Friend of Jesus” by Tom Petersburg.

Tom Petersburg, www.catapultministries.org

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