The line we like to use at church a lot is “You Belong Here.” We want everyone to feel like they are accepted. There is something about feeling accepted by others. It makes you feel valued and gives you a positive sense of connection. But the truth is, we will not be accepted everywhere we go. Jesus wasn’t even accepted everywhere he went. You would think Jesus would have VIP tickets to any place he wanted to go, but he did not and does not. Jesus is not accepted nor welcomed everywhere. He challenges the behaviors and systems that exist only to care for oneself. And not everyone appreciates being challenged.
Photo by Redfishingboat (Mick O)