Week 7 Friday – Sirach 6:5-17; Mark 10:1-12

“Keep yourself far from your enemies and be on guard towards your friends.” In today’s reflection, we contemplate the profound wisdom found in the Book of Sirach regarding friendship, which finds its ultimate fulfilment in Christ’s own words to His disciples. As Catholics, we understand that authentic friendship is a gift from God, reflecting His own desire for communion with us.

The sacred author warns us about superficial relationships that masquerade as true friendship. How often do we encounter those who seek our company merely for personal gain, emotional support without reciprocity, or fair-weather companions who disappear in times of trial? These relationships, though common, fall short of the Christian ideal of friendship.

True friendship, in its purest form, mirrors Christ’s own relationship with us. When Jesus elevated His disciples from servants to friends, He revealed the profound dignity of authentic friendship. This divine model shows us that genuine friendship transcends physical presence and persists through difficulties. A true friend stands with us in our darkest moments, not necessarily agreeing with everything we do, but remaining steadfast in their commitment to our spiritual and temporal well-being.

Let’s examine our own friendships today. Do they reflect Christ’s selfless love? Are we the kind of friend who remains faithful in times of trouble? Most importantly, do we nurture our primary friendship – our relationship with Jesus, who calls us friends and gave His life for us? In the Eucharist, we find the perfect model of friendship: Christ’s complete gift of self for our salvation.