In many a church you will find a sign that says, “All are welcome here!” But how often do we forget what it means to welcome each other fully into our worship and community? Jesus makes it clear that when we welcome him, we also welcome the one who sent him, just as when we welcome someone into our lives, we also welcome whatever sent them. Maybe they are new to the area and looking for a new church; maybe they didn’t feel welcome in their former congregation because they are divorced, gay, or any other number of things we sometimes hold against another person. When we say all are welcome, that means welcoming people as their whole selves and as Christ himself. (Guest Preacher, Rev. Phil Carl)
Accompanying Scripture:
Jeremiah 28:5-9, Romans 6:12-23, Matthew 10:40-42
