A Place to Belong

We all long to belong—to be seen, valued, and accepted. The good news is that in Christ, we don’t just find acceptance—we find family. But that idea can feel a bit strange at first, maybe it does to you too. Thinking of people who aren’t related to you by blood as true brothers and sisters, even as spiritual parents or children, takes some getting used to.

Even in church communities, people often keep a bit of distance, calling our fellow believers our "church family" while maintaining certain boundaries. Yet Christ calls us to something deeper. He doesn’t just invite us into a community; He calls us into real, life-giving relationships that reflect the closeness of a true family—where love, commitment, and care aren’t just words, but a way of life.

Matthew went from being an outcast to being one of Jesus’ twelve disciples–part of His family. He found his place. In The Chosen (Season 2, Episode 7), we see how he is no longer just ‘the tax collector’—he is part of the group. He belongs, just as Jesus had planned for him from the beginning. We see this confirmed in the Bible–and also being applied to all of us: you, me, and everyone else.

The Bible tells us that in Christ, we are chosen (1 Peter 2:9). We are children of God (Galatians 3:26). Jesus Himself says, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.” (Revelation 3:20). His invitation is not just to visit—it’s to belong.

Do you believe that you have a place in God’s family? If you’ve been struggling with belonging, spend time today asking Jesus to help you see how deeply He welcomes you.

P.S. Are you enjoying this journey with Matthew? Your own character might even resemble his. Care to find out? Take our The Chosen 'Test of Character' and journey for a while with the character you have the most in common with.