John's Gospel reading reveals not so much the concept of servanthood but rather, that of genuine friendship. A servant is often kept in the dark and their job is just to do certain tasks, whereas to a friend is revealed who they are and what they are planning. The Jerusalem Council sends an encouraging letter to the believers in Antioch, Syria and Cilicia. Paul and Barnabas were sent as envoys, friends in the faith.

Friendship with Christ goes beyond completing a task; instead, we are often given insight into His Father's plan and His compassion through Christ. Through this insight, "however tough it may seem", we are called to continuously obey and follow Jesus, in an openness of friendship expressed in various ways, including laying down one's life for others, if needed.

It is also important to note that it is 'God who chooses us and commissions us to go out and to bear fruit, fruit that will last...' (Jn 15:16). This metaphor is used to explain how our spiritual life as born-again believers, is drawn from His life. We progress from barrenness to fruitfulness, to spiritual abundance, in Christ. This includes being friends of the friendless, to reach out into this world and to be beacons of light in a dark world that is in need of love and light today.

How are you being Christ's beacon to yourself and others today?