I've always loved Halloween. I'm a childish soul, and I never worried too much about scary creatures or forces of darkness. Instead, I see Halloween as a grand celebration of what children love most: costumes, imagination, and candy.
I kind of wish that all year round, we did more dressing up as our favorite characters. I kind of wish that all year round, I would see the streets full of children enjoying themselves. I kind of wish that all year round, people would knock on strangers' doors in the confident hope of good things--a glass of water or a handful of candy.
Well, Halloween's over. But the season of welcome is just beginning. There's Thanksgiving, where turkey dinners remind us that gratitude for God's good gifts is expressed by feeding one another good food. There's Christmas season, where pretty decorations and caroling remind us that Jesus' birth should make us approach every friend and every stranger with a cheerful welcome.
Faith in God isn't just about religion. It's about seeing God's grace in the face of every person we see, welcoming them in Jesus' name.
Faith in God isn't just about religion. It's about seeing God's grace in the face of every person we see, welcoming them in Jesus' name.
When I go vote on Tuesday, I know I will see cheerful hardworking poll workers, welcoming me to make my voice heard in this democracy of ours. When I go to church on Sunday, I know I will be welcomed with love and good cheer, my opinions honored, my voice appreciated.
As the days get darker and the weather colder, may our hearts burn warmer and faces shine brighter, welcoming one another with the welcome we receive from Jesus.
If this sounds good to you, reach out to us, or join us for Sunday worship at 10 a.m.
--Jonathan
Comments