Be a courageous advocate!

As we explore the value of friendship, the children are learning about standing up for others and for the values in which we believe.  An advocate is a friend who takes your side and helps to present your point of view; they give a voice to those who might not otherwise be heard, speaking out against injustice.  This often means being brave.  This Christian perspective weaves through our Jigsaw work this autumn in the Celebrating Difference puzzle.

”Blessed are those who have regard for the weak;

the Lord delivers them in times of trouble”

Psalm 41:1

Friendship is an undisputed value in our society, with children often spending more time with their friends than their families. It is a key concept in the Christian framework, with Jesus being criticised for being 'the friend of sinners' and eating with those whom society had rejected. The barriers between people are broken down in a loving community around God. Jesus had stern words to say to those who refused to recognise that all are included in this community of friendship.

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 doesn't really care for you. The friendship of David and Jonathan is very strongly emphasised in the Bible, Abraham is described as the friend of God (James 2:23) and Jesus explicitly calls his disciples not servants, but friends.(John 15:14-15).

True friendship enables each person to grow and ensures that the unique individuality of each person is recognised. All this echoes the value God placed on the preciousness of each person.

Example Bible Story:

David and Jonathan

Samuel 1 Chapter 18

Friendship Introduction