Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Christ’s Presence with the Outcast

Sarah Varghese
Carmel MTC Boston

8 And God, who knows the human heart, testified to them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he did to us;


Differences can have the power to separate people. Gender, sex, race, class, politics, and wealth,  are only a few of the many categories that divide us. Although society tries to further separate us based on these factors, our common denominator is our love for Christ. As His followers we are called to serve, spread His love, and accept our brothers and sisters with open arms.

The Gentiles were seen as outcasts. They were rejected and looked down upon by society. They were seen as unable to be saved because of a simple physical difference. In our world today, there are still many who may feel like outcasts. They may love God just as much , they may serve just as much, and they may spread his love just as much as others, but still they may feel not good enough, not loved, and not able to be saved. As His followers, it is our duty to love and accept the “unwanted.” In this passage we see Peter addressing the council trying to convince them that God accepts the Gentiles just as He accepts us. Christ has accepted us despite our shortcomings and sins, He did not turn us away. In the same way, we are to bring others to Christ by spreading this good news. Those who feel unwanted or not good enough need to know that Christ is for them and not against them.  
 
Ultimately, God knows our hearts. He does not make a distinction between us. No matter our gender, sex, race, class, or political beliefs Christ accepts us for who  we are. Before Him we are all equal.

PRAYER

Father, help us to see others as You see them. Help us to love others unconditionally. Amen

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
“In Him we are a new creation, the old has gone and the new has come.  We are made new in Him!” 2 Corinthians 5:17

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