Open Arms

It was great a gift and joy to hold my nieces and nephew to welcome them into the world and our family.

If you have little children in your family or get to be around young people elsewhere, you may be blessed to see, hear, and feel their innocent joy. We are reminded of the gifts that all people bring to the family of God in the church and throughout society.

Word
We don’t know much about Jesus’ own childhood. It seems that he learned about Bible and knew to apply faith in his life. And especially how to care for others with compassion, to the point of dedicating his work and giving his life.
According to Mark, Jesus taught his followers about putting others first. When they did not understand what his teaching and actions were about, “He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, 'Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.'” (Mark 9:35)
To illustrate his instruction, Jesus hugged a child to show that welcoming others with open arms is like welcoming him, and that whoever welcomes him welcomes God who sent him.

Connection
Like in a family, children learn about God’s love, their place, and consideration for needs of others, the church is a place to practice non-judgmental welcome, patient co-existence, and joy of self-less deeds.
Not only here at church, but in your everyday lives. Instead of trying to outdo, go out of our way. Notice people who pass by, and say “Hi” to the outsiders. Use your daily life and work as opportunity to serve God and fellow humanity.

Message
The Good News is: God welcomes us with open harms. Jesus embraces us sinners with forgiveness on the cross. And the Spirit sends us with the resurrection message to bring peace.
Jesus says to you: Love others as you are accepted and cared for by God. There is no need to compete or feel left out. In the kingdom of love all of you are welcome and valued equally.