Everyone is welcome here

“The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and you say, “Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.” LUKE 7:34, NIV

When I sit scrolling through social media outlets, I see posts as varied as the people represented there. I try to look for the good, and I am encouraged by people who choose to speak about love and grace and mercy.

My eyes wander to our dining room wall, where we recently hung a print of a favorite quote of mine I came across last fall. It says, “Come on in, there is always room at the table for you.” It’s a welcome beacon over my dining room table, reminding me of what I, as a Christian, am called to do.

Love my neighbor.

I think about Jesus’ life on earth, how he invited people into community who were very different from him. I remember that he was called a drunkard and a glutton—not because he was those things, but because he chose to hang around people who were. I’m reminded of the words my pastor so frequently offers us: “You can belong here before you believe.”

I wonder how many of the conversations we see on our social media feeds would change if we would be willing to invite people into our lives. If we would gather around our tables and have conversations, face to face. If we started seeing what makes us alike, not just what makes us different.

I wonder what would happen if we chose to see the humanity in one another. If we embraced one another even when we don’t embrace the same beliefs. Rather than speaking in generalizations or feeling that sharing our opinions is the same as sharing our faith, perhaps we need to do more. We need to be willing to put in the time and energy to love people right where they are. This is not an easy task, I know. We may even be questioned by others, but we can rest assured knowing that this is the work that Jesus calls us to do.

Today’s Act of Kindness: When given the opportunity to speak ill of a person or people group, instead pray blessing on them.

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This is an excerpt from One Year Daily Acts of Kindness (entry by Kendra Roehl)

What would happen if you and your family committed to doing one act of kindness each day for a year?

Our world desperately needs more kindness. Whether it’s on social media, in the news, or between your arguing kids it can seem like conflict and disconnection are everywhere. But imagine how much better life would be if we got intentional about being kind!

This year, embark on a journey to make kindness a part of your life, home, and soul. In The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional, you’ll find Scripture passages and inspirational personal stories about why God calls us to show kindness, what it means to live a life of generosity, and how you can incorporate kindness into your everyday routine (and teach it to your kids) with tons of simple, easy-to-do ideas.

Show your world the kind of love that is possible with daily acts of kindness that will change your heart, inspire your family, and draw you closer to God.

This book is available at OMF Lit Luzon Bookshops (soon nationwide) and our online store, passagesbooks.com for P365. You can get 30% off until September 30!