Week 3 | Day 1 | Reflecting Jesus’ Embrace

Command:

But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous. Luke 14:13-14 (NIV)

Read:

“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” Romans 15:7 (NIV)

Reflect:

Growing up, I often felt misunderstood, especially by my family. My unique tastes and introverted nature made me feel like an outsider, and these feelings intensified when I moved from Mexico in middle school, leaving me feeling isolated.

As I transitioned from middle school to college, I carried the weight of doubt, insecurity, and imperfection. It wasn’t until my second year in college when I joined a growth group that I truly grasped the transformative power of acceptance. Small gestures, like sharing a slice of pizza, singing karaoke, or a simple "Will you come back next week?" question, had a profound impact on my life.

We all have the opportunity to extend acceptance to those around us, reminding them of their worth to us and to God. Every day, we’re invited to reflect the acceptance we’ve received from God, fostering a sense of belonging and radiating love and grace to the world. Through these acts, we affirm that everyone is loved, accepted, and invited into a loving relationship with our Creator.

React:

How can we actively practice accepting and supporting others in our daily lives, mirroring Christ's acceptance of us?

Pray:

Dear God, help us to embrace and support one another, just as Christ welcomed us, so that our unity may shine and bring glory to You. Amen.