Today’s scripture: Luke 9:46-48 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me in this passage? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Melody Merida):
When I read these verses, the first thought that came into my mind (actually the second thought behind Muhammad Ali) was of someone in our congregation named Jennifer. Let me explain.
Next to our church building are a few houses that the church owns and rents. One Sunday a few months ago, the four small children who live in one of the houses with their mother were riding their bikes and playing around the church building during Sunday services.
While it would have been very easy for someone to shoo the kids away so as not to disturb the congregation or the service, Jennifer walked outside and struck up a conversation with the four kids to learn more about them. She invited them to come inside and attend the services that day. They came inside for a tour and to get a few cookies but quickly left. Before leaving, Jennifer told them that they were welcome to come anytime. She told them to just ask for Jennifer and she would take care of them.
Several weeks went by without any sight of the kids from next door. Then Easter rolled around and just as we welcomed other children to our annual Easter egg hunt, our four new friends showed up at the door. The first thing they asked was if Jennifer was there that day. After a few more weeks they again showed up for Sunday morning service — but this time they came inside and decided to stay. Now they are regular attendees and are proud to show off their JMCC name tags. Of course, on Sunday mornings the first person they look for is Jennifer. After all, she is the reason any of them are here at all.
I think the reason I thought of Jennifer when reading today’s Scripture is because Jennifer shows us what true greatness is all about. Through the welcoming spirit she showed to those children, she in turn welcomed Jesus himself. Maybe Jennifer showed true welcome because she knew that those we often consider to be the least among us — in this case, those little children — are actually the greatest.
Thought and prayer for the day: How have I expressed my care for others lately, especially “the least”? Am I too busy worrying about being great that I am not able to grasp true greatness as Jesus defines it? God, teach me to strive for the type of greatness that Jesus shows us by serving and welcoming the least among us. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.