One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend
who sticks closer than a brother. – Proverbs 18:24 (NIV)
A Christmas tradition I started with my family years ago was picking a night, making popcorn, and watching White Christmas together. With all the hustle and bustle—the kids’ parties, shopping, work events, church events, and parades, I wanted to be intentional and slow down. I couldn’t think of a better way than singing along with my kids to a classic movie.
White Christmas has many themes, but for me, at its core, it is about the friendship of two war buddies, played by Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. In the war, Kaye saves Crosby from being hurt, but in the process gets injured himself. And he uses that injury to get Bing to agree to a partnership in the entertainment business once the war is over, despite Bing repeatedly saying he works alone. They become not only business partners, but best friends.
HAPPILY EVER AFTER
Well-intentioned Kaye consistently pushes Crosby out of his comfort zone, first with the shows they perform together, which lead to great success, and later in encouraging Bing to take a chance with love, knowing he’s fallen for one of the two sisters performing at the inn in Vermont where they find themselves for the holidays (a change of plan concocted by Kaye).
In the end, Bing gets a happily ever after with his love interest, as does Kaye with the other sister. And they save the inn of their well-loved, former Army General. And of course, it snows, giving them a white Christmas. Without each other’s support and encouragement, it’s unlikely either of them would’ve experienced that happily ever after.
CLOSER THAN A BROTHER
Their on-screen friendship reminds me of Proverbs 18:24 “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” That type of friend is priceless. They push you to be the best version of yourself and are ready to jump in and support you however they can. They shift your perspective and help you navigate new seasons of life—even if it can sometimes make you uncomfortable. I’ve been blessed to find that type of friend through small groups. They show up for me, my husband, and our kids in the little things and the big things.
Recently, I had the opportunity to assist in disaster relief efforts in North Carolina and Florida. I wouldn’t have been able to go to help without the support of my friends, Sarah and Marlene. They’re both in my small group and offered without hesitation to help care for my children while my husband is at work. They empowered me and encouraged me to reach others for Christ.
It’s so important to have people around you who point you to Christ, friends who encourage you and reflect God’s love.
Reflect: Who are you surrounding yourself with this Christmas season? Are you in a small group?
