Friendship is an undisputed value in our society, with children often spending more time with their friends than with family. Jesus was often criticised for being ‘the friend of sinners’ and eating with those whom society rejected.
Sharing a meal with someone is an explicit sign of friendship and the word ‘companion’ literally means ‘one with whom you share bread.’
Barriers between people are broken down in a loving community around God and Jesus had stern words to say to those who refused to recognise that all are included in this community of friendship.
The Bible has many sayings about friendship: ‘A friend loves at all times.’ (Proverbs 17:17)
'Friends are not afraid to tell each other the truth and a friend’s loving criticism is worth more than the empty compliments of someone who does not really care for you.'
‘If one falls down, a friend can lift him up’. (Ecclesiastes 4:10)
Bible stories we may tell include: 'Down through the roof' as well as others such as how Jesus managed to forgive Simon Peter for betraying him.
Children support each other during our activities, through our shared experience we get to know and care for each other...and we pick each other up when we fall down