Scripture: Romans 15:7
Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
Thought for the Day: I am reading Anne Lamott’s book, Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace. I have always appreciated Lamott’s often challenging words, and early in the book, a simple phrase got me to thinking. Lamatt wrote, “It turns out that welcome is solidarity. We’re glad you’re here, and we’re with you.” I often brag on Cypress Creek Christian Church’s hospitality and openness to the community. It’s sad to say, but it is rather unique among churches in United States. Too many of them have an overly protective attitude, closing themselves off from the community by arguing that the church people must safeguard the beauty of their buildings. But even here at Cypress Creek, I wonder if our hospitality needs to take another step – more like the welcome defined by Anne Lamott. This type of welcome is more than opening our doors to others; it is inviting them to sit down so that we can hear their stories and stand in solidarity with them. There are some groups just needing space, and we will continue to provide it. But there are others who could use an advocate, a faithful voice to speak on behalf of those who feel as if they have no voice. In the next couple of months, I am going to spend some time praying about what it means for us to move from hospitality to true welcome.
Prayer: You have shown humanity great hospitality, O Lord who first loved us. You also sent us an advocate, the Holy Spirit, to stand with us in all of life’s troubles. Open the eyes of my spirit so that I am aware of others and can stand with them in their troubles. Amen.
VBS
June 16 – 20
Sign Up A Child or To Volunteer
CLICK HERE FOR VBS
