Who Calls You Friend?

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Who Calls You Friend?

by Shelly McClanahan

One of my favorite memories from my time as an English as a second language (ESL) teacher is from when I taught first grade. On the playground, two little boys approached the bench where the teachers sat. One was a first generation American-born boy of Asian descent who was fluent in English, the other a recent immigrant from South America who had just learned to say hello. With a big grin beneath his round glasses, the Asian student proclaimed “We’re best friends! I don’t know what he’s saying, but we’re best friends!” Then they ran off to play.

We sometimes steer clear of those who are different from us. Fear may keep us from building relationships. We’re not sure what to say, or if we’ll be understood. Other times, it’s the busyness of life that keeps us from knowing our neighbors. Taking care of our own needs and the needs of our family can be time consuming. But God made us to be in relationship with others, not only to glorify Him and make Him known, but also for our own good.

We see examples of this in the Bible. The good Samaritan is just one example of showing friendship to those who are different from you. Perhaps the most amazing friendship of all is between us and Jesus. Yes, He calls us friends! In John 15:15, Jesus says “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” (NIV).

Who could be more different than the omniscient God of the universe and us—flawed, sinful beings, blatantly opposed to Him at times. And yet He still makes more than an effort to know us. Jesus shows us the perfect example of befriending those who are different from us.

Many times, in the Bible, we’re urged to come to the aid of foreigners in our land (Deuteronomy 10:19, Matthew 25:40, Romans 12:13). There are many ways to do this: ● Volunteer in a local adult ESL class. Maybe your church has one. If you don’t feel comfortable teaching, you could help with childcare or provide snacks.

● Get to know a neighbor or coworker who is new to your area. Invite them to your church, or for a meal in your home. ● Be open to learning about other cultures. Attend events that highlight the different cultures in your area. Be aware of who lives around you, and what specific needs they might have.

It is our privilege to get to know our neighbors who have different life experiences and perspectives from our own. God can and does orchestrate encounters for us to show friendship. Let’s be ready for them.

About The Author Shelly McClanahan has worked as both an ESL teacher and ESL Program Coordinator in public schools in the United States and in international schools in Albania, South Korea, and England. She has also taught adult ESL in church programs in Tennessee and Georgia. She currently teaches middle school ESL near Nashville.