Leadership Message

Following the Friendship Footsteps of Jesus

This term at our Brooklyn Park Assemblies, our devotions are focusing on the topic of “Following the Friendship Footsteps of Jesus”.  A big thank you to our chaplain, Joel Overweel, for putting this great learning together for us!

Each week, we are focusing on one of six characteristics that Jesus modelled in His friendships. Jesus showed us how to be a: 

• Trusted friend
• Respectful friend
• Patient friend
• Encouraging friend
• Selfless friend

• Present friend

   

Jesus didn’t just teach about friendship. He lived it. His twelve disciples weren’t merely followers; they were His friends. They shared meals, travelled together, prayed, laughed, talked and learned side by side. Their bond was deep and personal, rooted in love and trust.

As Christians, we know that we have been created by a relational God, designed for connection - with Him and with one another. It then comes as no surprise that modern research echoes this truth. Positive relationships are essential to human flourishing because God made us that way!

Well-known psychologist Martin Seligman, has conducted extensive research into what helps humans to flourish. His research into the impact of positive relationships has shown that:

• The presence of trust, compassion, and support in relationships deeply influences our happiness and life satisfaction
• Social connections buffer us against stress and help us thrive - even during adversity
• Positive relationships are not just about receiving, but giving - generosity, empathy and shared joy all play a role in building bonds

• Strong social ties are one of the best predictors of life satisfaction and longevity

   

One of the most compelling findings comes from an 86-year Harvard study on happiness. As shared in Robert Waldinger’s TED Talk (worth looking up and watching), the study found that the people most satisfied with their relationships at age 50 were the healthiest at age 80. Research also shows that good relationships don’t just protect our bodies - they protect our minds. People who are surrounded by supportive, loving connections stay mentally sharper for longer.

Positive relationships are not just good psychology - they are God’s design!

As we teach our children about the value of friendship as modelled by Jesus, it also reminds me of how important it is as adults to continue to sow into the wonderful friendships that we have in our own lives. God has designed us to live in community and when life is busy and messy, the support of those we love and treasure in our lives is so important. 

In our school community, we’re excited to nurture these values in our students - not just through assemblies, but in the everyday moments of school life. God created us to be in relationship with Him and with each other and has shown us how we can best cultivate deep and meaningful friendships in our lives. Jesus modelled for us how to be a great friend to others, so that we can live in the way God made us to.

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)

Let’s continue walking these friendship footsteps together.

Marni Greenwood

Head of Junior School, Brooklyn Park