In what ways can we embody Christ's love when welcoming others? Welcoming Jesus by Welcoming Others “And whoever welcomes one such child in My name welcomes Me.” • Jesus links receiving a vulnerable believer with receiving Himself. • Every time we open the door, seat, or circle to someone in His name, we are honoring the Lord directly. Other voices echo the same truth: – Romans 15:7: “Therefore welcome one another, just as Christ also welcomed you, for the glory of God.” – Matthew 25:35: “I was a stranger and you took Me in.” Recognizing Who We Receive • We do not merely greet people; we receive Christ’s presence in them. • The “child” represents anyone humble, needy, or overlooked. • Seeing others through this lens guards us from partiality (James 2:1-4). Practical Ways to Embody Christ’s Love Hospitality – Invite newcomers to sit with you, share a meal, or join a small group. – Keep an eye out for those standing alone after a service or event. Listening – Give undivided attention; phones stay pocketed, eyes meet theirs. – Ask their story and remember details for next time (Philippians 2:4). Encouragement – Speak Scriptural truth over them: John 13:34, “Love one another.” – Send a follow-up text or note reminding them they are valued. Service – Offer practical help: rides, childcare, errands (Galatians 6:2). – Sacrifice convenience; love costs something (Mark 10:45). Inclusion – Rotate social circles so no one feels peripheral (1 Corinthians 12:22-25). – Celebrate cultural, generational, and personality differences as God’s design. Guarding Our Hearts as We Welcome • Humility: remembering we were once outsiders brought near (Ephesians 2:13). • Purity: motives checked—seeking God’s glory, not personal praise. • Perseverance: welcoming remains when gratitude isn’t returned (Luke 14:12-14). Drawing Strength from Christ’s Example – He “came to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). – He touched lepers, ate with sinners, blessed children. – When fatigue hits, meditate on Hebrews 13:2: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers…” Living the Lesson Together • Make hospitality a shared ministry: schedule rotating dinner nights, usher teams, greeting rotations. • Celebrate testimonies of how a simple welcome changed a life. • Keep Matthew 18:5 visible—bulletin, foyer, or phone wallpaper—to remind every heart that in welcoming others, we are welcoming Jesus Himself. |
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