August 31

All Are Welcome

If you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? (Matthew 5:47).

Scripture: Matthew 5:43-48

Song:“Whosoever Will”

John Bunyan, in his classic book The Pilgrim’s Progress, introduces a character that portrays the simple-minded person we see in Psalms and Proverbs. The man Simple is often pitied but not to be blamed. He is unlike Ignorant, who is so by choice, or Little-faith, who chooses not to increase his knowledge. Rather, Simple is child- like, yet his fault comes in not seeing the danger around him.

In our church we have some simple people, and they are an added joy to our congregation. One middle-aged woman greets by name everyone who attends, yet she has had little education. During the sermon she copies the Scripture passage and gives it to me to “grade.” Taking it home, I give her an A+ and affix stickers on her paper. When it’s returned, she shows others the stars, dogs, kittens, and such, saying, “Look how I did!”

If I only greeted those in my congregation who are part of “my group,” who are leaders and those to whom I relate well, I would miss a great blessing.

Yes, our members represent different levels of socioeconomic status, but all are welcome and beloved. None are outside the circle of fellowship; all are God’s dear children.

Thank You, Lord, for reminding me that You have included each one of us in Your invitation to join in the fellowship of believers. Keep growing in me an attitude of acceptance, so that I truly appreciate what others contribute to my life. In Christ, amen.