Pause

Reconciliation is nothing short of a miracle. Reconciliation preserves a relationship that could have just as easily been flung aside. Reconciliation is always a good reason for celebration. It is life-giving.

The first step in reconciliation is letting go of the past. The more we hold on to the way we think things should have been, the less likely we are to see the opportunity emerging for a brand new way. God is always able to offer us a new ending. All we have to do is recognize that the story isn’t over yet, and turn back to the One who loves us unconditionally.

Listen

Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.”

Luke 15:1-2

Think

Who you eat with says more about you than almost anything else you do. It has always been that way. People in power usually like to eat with other powerful people. But Jesus doesn’t play that game. He eats with everyone, especially those who are seen as outsiders.

Can such a simple act be the doorway to a new life? Anything that makes the scribes and Pharisees grumble can’t be that bad. It might actually be a lot of fun! At the very least, it gives you a chance to be near someone that God loves dearly.

How might you invite someone to your table?

David Schaefers

Pray

God of all, you see me for who I am. You save a place for me at your table. Help me to do the same, as I spread your love in ways that may make some grumble. Amen.

Go

God loves a new beginning. It doesn’t matter who you were yesterday, last month, or last year; if you are still breathing, God has a brand new plan for your life. Labels and stereotypes mean nothing to the One who created you.

Your story was made to intersect God’s bigger story over and over again. Wherever you are, God has put you there; God has a purpose in your being where you are. Christ, who lives in your heart, has something in mind to do through you, exactly where you are.

Believe this and go in God’s grace, power, and love.