Choose true friends wisely, they make us better. Beware of those who pull us away from God. Evangelize all, but select friends carefully.
Brothers and sisters, let’s reflect on the wisdom of the Saints. Saint John Paul II once said that a true friend is the one who helps us become better. This idea is something we all recognize, but it prompts us to think about who our true friends really are.
We often use the term ‘friend’ casually, saying we have friends at work or in our neighborhood. However, we must differentiate between colleagues, acquaintances, and genuine friends. Who are our true friends?
Saint John Paul II defines a true friend as the one who contributes to our improvement. I’ve heard stories from parents who noticed positive changes in their children because of good friends. These friends made them more obedient, studious, and motivated.
In our lives, we encounter various people, some of whom we simply like to spend time with. Occasionally, especially when speaking to young people, they might mention a friend who isn’t particularly religious or who has some vices. As we delve deeper into the conversation, we discover that this friend might lead them away from their faith or involve them in actions contrary to their beliefs. Still, they consider them friends.
We must pause and assess who our friends are and how we spend our time. Who motivates us and encourages us to lead a virtuous life and practice our faith? We should be wary because someone we consider a friend can unwittingly become an instrument of negativity, drawing us away from our faith, step by step.
While it’s true that we are called to interact with everyone and share our faith, we must be cautious when choosing our close friends—those who truly influence us. Our friends should inspire us to remain faithful to Christ and choose Him every day, dispelling any doubts that may arise.
Some might say they would never doubt their faith, but we all experience different doubts. I’ve spoken to people who, after associating with certain acquaintances they called friends, went through significant crises of faith and drifted away from the church for extended periods. Later, they realized that the influence of these so-called friends was detrimental.
On the flip side, we should also consider whether we are the kind of friends who motivate others to be better. Are we the ones who inspire them to seek God’s guidance, overcome their weaknesses, and turn to God as the solution?
We are called to be friends who help others become better, as Saint John Paul II suggests. Nevertheless, we must also evaluate who our true friends are. Life is fleeting, and even if we have just one good friend, let that friend be the one who enriches our lives and helps us become better.
May God bless you as we continue to reflect on the wisdom of the Saints.
