One of the many things I love about Jesus was how often he chose to spend time with people, at a wedding, talking to people on hills in Galilee or the streets of Jerusalem. He engaged with everyone, teaching, challenging and bringing healing. He often asked questions and made people think. He wanted to bring the ways of heaven to earth. He went to the home of the tax collectors, spoke with the prostitute and those who were sick. He had time for everyone.
Our society is fragmented just now. Many people are lonely and scared, wondering who they are and what their purpose it. Since covid, we all seem to have grown further apart, alienated from one another. We got used to being alone.
Jesus often ate with people, with his disciples, friends and anyone around. He treated each person with dignity and respect. He welcomed people and showed them love.
If you are feeling a bit low today, or missing a loved one, or just out of sorts, please know how much you are loved. I believe that Jesus welcomed everyone, from the smallest child to the woman with a difficult story. He sees us, He welcomes us to the table and says ‘ there is a place for you.’. We are seen, cherished, loved.
It is hard to find our way in the world just now. Too many people wrestle with self doubt, with dark memories, with pride or shame or guilt. We wonder what is our life about. May we place our trust in our God who loves us. Even if we have faith just the size of a grain of mustard, that is enough. May we each know the welcome and grace of our God.
In Luke 14: 12-24- Jesus spoke of a banquet, where the people to be invited were the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind. The idea was that no one was to be missed out, and everyone welcomed. May we take this to heart, and also seek to show hospitality to others, in the same way as God welcomes us.
Gracious God, there are times in our lives when we can feel cut off from others, questioning our worth, feeling invisible. Thankyou Lord Jesus, that You always see us, and make a space for us at your table. We come not on merit, but because of your grace. We are humbled and deeply grateful that You see and welcome us even when we do not deserve it. Holy Spirit help us to realise the meaning of your grace deep in our souls, and to know we always have somewhere we belong with You. Thankyou Lord.
An umbrella of healing love 