Listen

See what kind of love the Father has given to us in that we should be called God’s children, and that is what we are! Because the world didn’t recognize him, it doesn’t recognize us.

1 John 3:1

Think

This is an ode to the outcasts! God welcomes us all! These are words of reassurance to those who are led by love, who are drawn toward peace, and who care for all of creation. These are things God calls us to do. These are the things Jesus did, even though the people around him didn’t always understand.

Celebrate those moments where you are different, distinct, or on a different path than those around you. Your motivations and reasonings may seem strange to others — to those who are compelled by the world’s demands to ignore or avoid what God commands. When our faithful actions seem strange or confusing to those around us, we are in good company. Even those closest to Jesus were not able to see him clearly all the time. He still chose to love, work for peace, and care for creation and those around him. As God’s children, we’re called to follow Jesus’ example in our own time and place.

Paris Ball

Question to Ponder: What are some of the things that “God’s children” do that may seem odd or strange to those around them?

Pray

Holy, courageous, and compassionate God,

I thank you for the model you have given me in Jesus’ life. I take comfort knowing that following your way may not make sense to those around me, and I ask for you to stay close to me when I feel isolated. Help me to be confident in following you, even when the rest of the world seems to be following a different path.

Amen.

Go

May God’s comfort and peace surround, enfold, and protect you

Remaining with you from this day and forevermore.

Amen.