One message I wanted to get across to them is that Jesus is our friend, whoever we are, whatever situation we find ourselves in. The lyrics of the song 'You've Got a Friend in Me' really make the point emphasizing that a true friend is there anytime and all you have to do is call out to them and they will help you. I tried to say to the Year Nines that as they listened to that song they should first of all listen to it as if God is singing it to them as a promise of His constant friendship with us if we reach out to Him. In other words we are never alone. At the same time they should listen to the lyrics as a challenge because that is how we are called to be to those around us. Not just those who are our mates but to anyone and everyone who is in need. That means being prepared to take a risk but that is part of what being Christian is about.

In Toy Story 2, as well as having a song called 'You've Got a Friend in Me' there is a character called 'the prospector' who lives pristine in a box and has done since he was made. In contrast to the other toys he has never been hurt or damaged but at the same time he has never lived. The character is a sad one and reminds me of Antique Road Show toys that have never been used - they may have monetary value but little else. We need to make sure that in our friendships, in our lives, we are not like the prospector protecting ourselves by never getting involved. If we are to be aware of and experience the true friendship of Christ then we need to share that friendship with those around us. Then we will know that we are never alone and live life to the full as Christ calls us to do.