Honest conversations

While everyone is busy preparing for the celebration, the disciples decide to buy Thomas a gift. To keep it a surprise, Peter pulls him away to the market to “buy soap.” As they walk, Peter gently tries to check in on him.

Thomas gives the “proper” answer at first, the kind you might give when you feel like you should be doing fine. But Peter encourages him to be honest, and Thomas admits how he’s really feeling: horrible.

Moments like this remind us how powerful it is when someone is willing to ask how we are really doing, and then stay long enough to hear the honest answer. We all need people who listen, care, and make space for what’s real. And others need that from us too.

In Ecclesiastes, we find a beautiful truth about friendship.

It says that two are better than one. When one falls, the other can help them up. They keep each other warm when life feels cold. They stand together when challenges come.

In this scene, Peter doesn’t offer perfect advice. He doesn’t have all the answers. He simply shows up, listens, and walks alongside Thomas. He shares from his own experiences.

You can do the same. You can listen, encourage, and simply be present–following Jesus’ example, and reflecting his love as you do..

Reflection Questions

• When someone asks you how you are, how honest are you?
• Do you ask others that same question and create space for real answers?
• What stands out to you about friendship in Ecclesiastes 4?
• How can your friendships help you and others follow Jesus more closely?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for seeing every detail of my life. You are always near. Help me offer that same kind of presence to others. Teach me to listen well, care deeply, and show your love to my friends. Amen.