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A welcome that reflects Christ

Romans 15:7 – “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”

One of the most beautiful truths of the gospel is this: Jesus never turned away those who came to Him. (And he was seldom found in the temple or places of religion as a teacher.)

Whether it was a tax collector up in a tree, a person without sight reaching out, a woman drawing water at a well, or a diseased person crying out —Jesus made space for people. Not just space in His schedule, but space in His heart. Unconditionally.

Romans 15:7 reminds us that this same spirit of acceptance marks our lives as followers of Christ.

Paul doesn’t just offer a polite suggestion here, he gives us a directive rooted in the example of Jesus Himself: “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you.”

This kind of welcome isn’t always easy. It calls us to stretch beyond our preferences, our circles, and even our comfort.

It’s more than simply saying hello on a Sunday morning. It means actively looking for those who may feel unseen, inviting conversation, building relationships, and walking alongside others—especially those who may feel on the outside looking in.

Jesus-follower hospitality has less to do with social niceties and more to do with the heart of the gospel.

When we accept one another unconditionally with the same grace Christ extended to us, we do more than build a friendly community; we bring praise to God. Our welcome becomes an act of worship. None of us are perfect, including this Pastor. That is why grace calls us to abound with unconditional love.

So this week, I invite you to take notice. Who might need a word of encouragement? Who is new, lonely, or struggling? Who have we overlooked? Ask the Lord to open your eyes and give you a heart like Jesus, a heart that welcomes fully, freely, and joyfully.

With grace and peace,
Pastor Karis

Seeking justice, walking humbly: A new ministry takes shape

Dear Lord,
Please help me remember not to be daunted by the enormity of the world’s grief.
Do Justly Now.
Love Mercy, Now.
Walk Humbly, Now.
I am not obligated to complete the Work,
But neither am I free to abandon it.
Amen.

Taken from a mashup of “Moving Beyond Individualism in Pastoral Care and Counseling” by Barbara J. McClure, drawing from Micah 6:8 and Pirkei Avot (Ethics of our Fathers) 2:16, and a modern text from Rami Shapiro, Wisdom of the Sages, 41, a translation of Rabbi Tarton’s work.

Thank you to all who have expressed interest in Social Justice. Many of you have brought up great questions and suggestions. Let’s start meeting by Zoom on Wednesday, Sept 17, at 7 p.m. More details to follow. Check in on local news in your area. We will be discussing locations for both protest and information booths.

Thank you for your interest. Remember to pray for our local, state, and federal leaders, as well as for the Social Justice Ministry as it is being formed.

Pam Pedersen

What’s Happening at Community