Have you ever had a Laura Bassett moment?
Bassett is the defender who accidentally kicked the ball into her own goal, giving Japan a 2-1 victory over her England team in Women's World Cup soccer yesterday.
England, a country with a soccer rich tradition, has not been a power in the sport for some time now. Bassett and her teammates inspired their country with their improbable run in the tournament. After the game Bassett's coach and teammates praised her for being the glue behind the team, a person who was greatly admired by all.
After the game it was heartwarming to see Bassett's teammates come to her. They hugged her and spoke words of encouragement and love. It was neat to see her friends come to her side.
In the church we sometimes sing, "What a Friend We Have In Jesus." But that is more than just a nice thought. Jesus does call us His friends.
"You are my friends if you do whatever I command you. Therefore I do not call you servants, for the servant does not know the will of his master. I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you." John 15:14-15.
When we are inconsolable because of mistakes we've made or sins we committed, we too have a friend to turn to. Jesus comes to us in His Word and speaks comfort and absolution. Jesus meets us at the communion rail and assures us as we receive His body and blood in the supper, "This is...for the forgiveness of sins."
It said much about the character of the team from England that they stood steadfast by their friend and teammate. You and I can be glad that we too have a Friend who stands by us. Jesus calls us His friends.
