30 Days of Praying for Children and FamiliesNäide

God’s vision for local churches is that they would be places where God’s love and mercy are extended to all.

To all – no exceptions. To all – whether rich or poor, male or female, slave or free. In his church, there is no room for ethnic or social barriers which prioritise one group over another.

That’s why James laments the favouritism evident in the churches he’s writing to. He appeals to them to flee from discrimination, to stop showing special attention to those in stylish outfits over the poor in their midst.

What if we lived truly in the light of the gospel of grace? If we ran away from our pride and willingly reached out to those who don’t look or speak, or dress like us.

Is there a lonely neighbour you could invite for a meal? Or someone at church who feels like an outsider, who you could welcome in? Are there families, new to your community, that are struggling to find belonging and connection?

Prayer

God of open arms,

Thank you that you loved me, even when I was a stranger. You reached out to me, when I had rejected you and walked away.

Help me to reflect your radical justice and welcome. Lead me to those I can extend hospitality to.

Give me the eyes to see the needs of those who are on the fringes of community. May I extend your love to them.