Free to belong – 23 April 2021

One of the scariest things about starting a new job, for me anyway, is not knowing anyone. Everyone else knows all the stories and the jokes, and they know how projects have worked (or not!) in the past. But when you’re the newbie, you must spend what seems like forever figuring out the dynamics and hoping you don’t accidentally say or do the wrong thing.

It’s such a relief then, when someone takes you under their wing, shows you the best spots to go for lunch and makes you feel welcome.

Whether it’s a new job, or a school or a city or a church, we all seek a place where we can feel comfortable. We seek a place where we belong and where we are accepted for who we are. We feel secure when we’re in a place where we do not have to pretend to be someone we are not.

Through the resurrection of Jesus, the Spirit of God offers us the gift of belonging and welcomes us into his family. God invites those who seek new life in Christ to come and make themselves comfortable in his presence.

Not all earthly families and communities are welcoming and comfortable, but the freedom God offers us through the resurrection is the gift of belonging to his family. We can share in all the privileges and responsibilities of being called God’s children. Our God accepts us and loves us for who we are in Christ. Through the resurrection we are free to belong!

Prayer: Father God, thank you for accepting us as your children. Just as you invite us through the gift of hospitality, may we extend that loving hospitality to others. In Jesus, Amen