Friends?

As I was searching for a picture to take today, I came across this , and then the scripture that followed. Sometimes I read things and go on and say that was good. But this has me Awestruck. Have you ever stopped to think that the God of heaven calls you,a friend? I can't say I could ever willingly lay down my life for my friends. I love them, but I just don't know that I am that courageous. I am trying to wrap my mind around why anyone would want me for a friend without wanting anything but love in return. But I know of no other we can go to with everything, any time night or day. What a beautiful sacrifice, to humble himself and call us friends, when He could have exalted himself and made us pay our own punishment.