An Encouraging Word during Lent

Today is the day that we go to pick up little Isaiah and bring him home as the newest member of our family.

The Lenten devotional that we read this morning felt like a clear word of encouragement from God in this humbling, exciting, frightening, hopeful time:

Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. (Matthew 25:40)

In this passage, Jesus equates two groups of people: "the least of these" and "those who are members of my family." Jesus declares that those who are without food, clothing, good health, or a place to call home are not just people in need, but our sisters, brothers [and children!] These strangers and have-nots of the world are the people most beloved by Jesus. This begs the question of how we respond to those who are strangers to us yet are most dear to Jesus.

Prayer: Holy God, we see strangers all around us in this world. Open our ears to hear the cries of the homeless and the sick. Open our hearts in compassion to those who are most precious to you. Guide our steps to those whom we can serve in your name. Amen.

Faith and Action: Because we have been equipped by God, we have the resources to connect with people who are currently strangers, but whom we will soon recognize as brothers and sisters in Christ.... As [our hearts] go out... we will see a transformation of those around us from the hurting unknown to beloved [fellow members in the family of God.]