Did Jesus have "Favorite" people?

Did Jesus have “Favorite” people?

Eileen Renders

We have heard Jesus say, “Love one another as I have loved you.” We believe He was referring to all of His creatures. He gave us all the same opportunities, yet some were born with mental or physical capacities that could make life a burden. He gave us all free will to choose right from wrong, and taught us how to live by His example while He was with us on earth.

Some of us were born with pleasant, good looks, and others were disfigured. Some have been given higher intelligence quotients than others, allowing for more abilities and opportunities. Many suffer greatly for many years with Arthritis, cancer, or some other disease, and others seem to become healthy athletes. Some of us accept our crosses and carry on, and others are complaining, live with resentment, or deal with jealousy.

Could God have decided what crosses each of us will bear, and who will have minimal burden? It has often been said that God only gives us what we can bear.

And why does it seem that some have been given more? Did God have favorites, and if so, why?

John was the youngest of the disciples and had a deep connection with Christ. It has been said that Jesus connected with the insightful writings of John. Mary Magdalene was one of the few female disciples. She understood His teachings and became a true believer. Could she have been a favorite disciple of Jesus? Was she favored?

Are some souls favored after death than others? What do you believe? It occurs to me that sinners who have been cruel throughout their lives, murdered children, and did not care to know or love God are not favored, and may not be forgiven!

What then brings a soul closer and into a more intimate relationship with Christ? My heart tells me that in looking at those in history who loved Christ, understood His teachings, and wanted to please Him, or loved Him more deeply than others may have been “favorites”. That is, of course, if Jesus had favorites at all. I believe that is possible because those who love Him more than anything else in life, live and work to serve Him. Possibly, Jesus would love and enjoy the depth and service we are willing to give to Him.

This is noted time and again: those who show love, forgiveness, and humility are spiritual hearts. Those who work to bring others closer to God will receive His love in return, and one day share in His glory!