It's strange to read how much Jesus loved particular people — like Lazarus and Martha (John 11:3, 5) — as if he didn't have an infinite love for each of us (Eph. 3:18-19)! But Jesus had friends (!) and shared a special affection with them.

Here's another odd thought: Christ was limited on Earth. He "emptied himself" and dealt with a body like yours (Phil. 2:7). Jesus got tired after a long day and needed to recover (Mark 4:38; 6:31, 45-46). Friendship takes time together, and Jesus only had so much time. For those 33 years, he couldn't be everywhere at once, and he couldn't invest in everyone like he did the twelve. So learn from the Lord and accept that you don't need equal closeness with everyone.

Even if Jesus could have shared that closeness with everyone, not everyone wanted it. He has proven our most loyal friend, yet many will reject him (John 15:13-14). Christ forces himself on no one. He shows us how to invite friendship without forcing the issue or fearfully protecting ourselves. Other people have limitations too, so they might not have room to get lunch with you, much less make you their new best friend. But if we avoid asking, we'll leave lonely people alone and miss out on great relationships.

So make the offer and make space for some friendships. Get as close as you can to as many as you can, without feeling pressure to do more than reasonably fit into your other commitments.