Week 3 | Day 3 | Embracing Inclusivity in a Divided World

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:

So in Christ Jesus, you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. - Galatians 3:26-29

Reflect:

In the bustling cacophony of today’s digital age, social media platforms amplify a culture of exclusion. More than once, I've been disheartened by the trend of 'canceling' those with opposing views. The refusal to even listen, solely because someone's perspective clashes with the popular narrative, is perplexing to me.

My time in the Navy further underscored the feeling of exclusion. As one of the few females in my workgroup, I often felt the weight of being different, trying my best to blend in, longing for connections that understood my unique experiences.

But the Gospel offers a radically different narrative, exemplified through stories like that of Zacchaeus in the Gospel of Luke. Zacchaeus was a tax collect, therefore an outcast by societal standards. His only wish was to catch a glimpse of Jesus as he passed by amidst a crowd. While Zacchaeus hid in a tree so as not to attract attention, Jesus nevertheless saw him. In a profound gesture of inclusion, Jesus chose his home for dinner. Through this, Jesus demonstrated that everyone, regardless of their social status or past, has a place at His table.

This same spirit of inclusion resonates in our church’s motto: "No perfect people allowed." It's a reminder that we come as we are, and God does the refining.

React:

As we navigate an increasingly polarized world, especially in the lead-up to pivotal events like the 2024 elections, it's crucial that our focus remains unwavering: We are FOR Jesus. Our mission isn't tied to earthly politics but to the eternal kingdom. And while opinions and debates might rage on, our responsibility is to anchor our community in Christ's love, pointing always to the Gospel and its message of inclusion.

Pray:

Lord, in a world that often promotes division, help us to be ambassadors of your inclusive love. Remind us that in your eyes, we are all equal, all cherished, all welcome. Give us the wisdom to navigate divisive waters with grace, always pointing to your eternal truth. May our church continue to shine as a beacon of inclusivity, serving our community and state, always rooted in your love. Amen.