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Romans 1:6 – And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. (NIV)
Recently, we had a couple join our church during the worship service. They have been coming to our congregation for over a year. They were brought to us by God through the Creative Expressions ministry that our church presents. Their teenage daughter is talented, and she enjoys being involved in our theatre groups. It is a joy to have them all become part of who we are; it is wonderful to give them a place where they each feel that they belong.
Throughout the week, we all meet people who are just trying to get through life. They struggle with keeping their families together, holding down a job, or advancing their careers. At times, we all feel isolated and vulnerable, overwhelmed and alone. We wonder what life is all about and question whether it has any real meaning. During those troubling moments, having a church family can fill the emptiness we experience. Being part of a faith community and finding a place where we belong can bring about a great deal of well-being to our hearts and minds, as well as our bodies and souls.
If you're feeling lonely today, then please think about seeking a regular community of Christ's people. Allow yourself to be called by Christ to a congregation where you can find meaning and purpose for your life. Permit the Holy Spirit to break down any self-imposed barriers or individual anxieties that you may have about fitting in. Let Jesus do for you what He does best: reach out to you and lead you, restore you and love you.
Questions for personal reflection:
Am I currently feeling isolated and alone? Will I allow Jesus to help me find a sacred place where I can belong?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You know us completely and understand all that we are currently feeling. Take us by the hand and lead us each day. Open our hearts and minds to the blessings of Your gospel. Allow us to seek and find a community of faith where we can truly belong. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
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One of your best!!
Thanks for sharing John, and so true.
Thank you John for sharing this, so very well put together. Amen and amen.
Thank you for your message – it spoke to me. As a former Deacon I have been without a church for sometime and hope this pushes me to reconnect.
God bless you.
Dear John,
Your message today should go out to all of North America.
It is exactly what is needed to bring people, young and old, back to worship and uphold our Christian values in the face of eroding interest and attendance at our Christian churches.
Especially the young people.
You always seem to be spot on, succinct and relevant.
Bless you, the group you lead is very fortunate.
What a lovely peaceful message inviting those who are lonely, sad and often downtrodden to the house of the Lord for comfort and assurance and showing them there is a way to find inner peace and assurance when everything else, one has tried, seems to fail.
I love your words, “Permit the Holy Spirit to break down any self-imposed barriers or individual anxieties that you may have about fitting in. Let Jesus do for you what He does best: reach out to you and lead you, restore you and love you.”
I know from experience, He loves us so gently and patiently and is the best friend anyone could have.
Again, thank you for the great work you do in the name of our dear Lord.
Hi John,
I always find something in your devotions that spark my interest!
Along with the over-all devotional, I was caught by your line “They were brought to us by God through the Creative Expressions ministry that our church presents.” Being a creative person, I am wondering if you or someone else could give me some information about your Creative Expressions Ministry?
Thank you so much for all your wonderful devotionals!
Prayers and blessings.