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by Robin McKinley
Narrated by Artificial Intelligence Christopher.
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Jesus’ coming to earth changed everything. His life set the example. His death and resurrection opened the way to eternal life. And one day, He will return to establish His kingdom.
But don’t miss this: while you are living right now, Jesus wants to be your friend.
The last time John saw Jesus was at the ascension. Years passed before he saw Him again. That moment is recorded in Revelation:
When I saw him, I fell at his feet as if I were dead. But he laid his right hand on me and said, “Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the Last. I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave. Revelation 1:17-18
I have a friend from my Bible school days named Lenny. Over the years, he earned a master’s degree, then a doctorate, and now serves as president of a worldwide university.
Many know him as Dr. Gary Seevers. I respect his achievements and his title, but to me, he’s still Lenny. And by the way, he wouldn’t have it any other way.
That helps us understand something about John. He wasn’t just a disciple—he was part of Jesus’ inner circle, along with James and Peter. He walked closely with Jesus. He talked with Him, learned from Him, and shared his life with Him.
John Was Close To Jesus
At one point, John even argued about who would be greatest in the kingdom. He wanted to sit near Jesus in His glory. That request reveals something important—John saw Jesus as both Lord and friend.
But when John saw Jesus in Revelation, everything changed. He didn’t greet Him casually. He didn’t speak as if nothing had happened. He didn’t point to his own accomplishments. He fell at His feet.
John Worshiped Jesus
In that moment, John saw Jesus in His glory—and his only response was worship. Yet notice what Jesus did. He reached out, touched him, and said, “Don’t be afraid.”
The same Jesus John walked with was still there—unchanged, faithful, and full of grace. As Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
John experienced both the closeness and the authority of Christ. And that’s where we need clarity. Jesus does want to be your friend—but not on your terms.
Before friendship comes surrender. You must recognize Him as Lord and receive Him as Savior. The cross was personal. He died for you.
When you come to Him that way, you don’t lose closeness—you gain it. You enter into a relationship that is both deeply personal and deeply reverent.
Take another look at His words: I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave. Revelation 1:18
That’s not just power—that’s assurance. The One who holds authority over death is the same One who reaches out His hand to you and says, “Don’t be afraid.” And yes—He wants to be your friend.
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About the Author:
Robin, with his wife Cindy, became children’s evangelists early in their ministry. They ministered to children full-time for eight years. They developed several children’s stories, which they told using visuals and puppets during that time.
Robin turned two of those stories into children’s books. One is called “The Contest,” a book about the Fruit of the Spirit, and the other is called “Twas the Night of Christmas,” with new artwork. He has also recently released his latest devotional book, titled “Great Stories in the Bible.”
Over 300 of his devotional writings are available on his Christian Perspectives website at www.ramckinley.com. When you visit this site, you can sign up to receive newly written devotions emailed twice a week.
Robin is the pastor of Calvary Christian Center in Pottstown, PA. He is an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God. He and his wife make their home in Birdsboro, Pa. He also serves as the president of the local Ministerium. He and Cindy have two married sons and four grandchildren.