Hello Stranger!

A spiritual comment and prayer to start the day with Swarzy

Good morning!

My best friend and I have been inseparable since we were 10! That’s A LOT of time spent at each other’s houses. When we were studying for our GCSEs, I practically lived at hers! I know where the mugs are kept, and my phone connects to the Wi-Fi before I’ve even taken my coat off. At this point, I’m not a guest. I’m family! But here’s what’s beautiful. There was once a time when we were complete strangers. We didn’t know each other, let alone imagine we’d become family!

This week, I’ve been reflecting on the beauty of welcome. From thoughtful hosts and generous guests to those who’ve made room for me when I’ve needed it most. And every welcome points me towards the greatest welcome of all. The Gospel of Jesus Christ! John 1:12 says: “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” WOW!

I was once a stranger to God, but through believing in Jesus, I’ve been transformed into a child of God and adopted into his everlasting family!
Not because I earned my place, but because Jesus gave His life on the cross to reconcile me to God. What extraordinary generosity! Psalm 103 describes God as “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” And that’s the character I want my welcome to reflect.

I pray.

Father God, thank you for welcoming me into your family through Jesus. May your compassion and generosity shape how I welcome others, so they experience something of your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

And as we finish this week, I’m reminded: God hasn’t just invited me round for dinner. He’s welcomed me home, forever!
And His invitation is still open.

Bless you!

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