Like many countries, the United States of America sets aside a day to reflect on and give thanks for the many good gifts (like good crops, etc) God gives to us. While we are enjoying our benefits, we should also remember and give to those who have less than we do (1 John 3).

The normalcy of hospitality

 

Western culture often struggles with concepts of hospitality for immigrants and vistors. Like many middle-eastern faiths, early Christianity viewed hospitality as part of their faith practice. Lydia demonstrated this when she immediately invites Paul to come stay with her and her family (Acts 16:15). By receiving Paul, she became a part of his story. In what ways do you help non-residents feel welcomed and cared for?

Are you stepping away from God's love?

 When Christians talk about remaining, or continuing in the "Love of God", it often sounds like a mental exercise in remembering to love God. In the gospel of John (Jn 15:9-17), the phrase seems more related to loving God by loving others. Maybe the best way to remain in love with God, is by showing His love to others. How can you love others this week?

Caring for the Cause

 God's care for His people is not always straightforward. After calling a drought on the land, Elijah suffered along with those he had cursed (1 Kings 7). God directed Elijah to a poor woman, whose suffering was undoubtedly increased by the drought. During this extreme time, she ensured the cause of  her increased suffering(Elijah) was given provision, and God blessed her for it in two unique ways.

Happy to be here

 

Christians often use Psalm 122 to remind us of the blessing we receive when we attend church. However, we should take care no to mistake our church buildings for God's presence. When we gather, either in person or through virtual meeting (Matt 18:20), we are benefiting from seeing God's spirt in our brothers and sisters (John 14).  How are you finding others to worship with?

When considering our trials and times of suffering it might be easy to dismiss Jesus' sufferings as something entirely different than what we are experiencing. The good news is that Jesus does understand exactly what you are feeling and relates to your experience as if it were his own (see Hebrews 4:15-16).

Who would you refuse to help?

When confronted by an arrogant religious man, Jesus challenged him by declaring that he needed to care for those around them. In hopes of not being required to do more than he was doing, the arrogant man tried to limit the scope of who he was responsible to help. In what ways do we limit our care? Luke 10.

Compassion in Crisis

How should we respond to a tragic crisis? Does our first impulse match with

the actions of the good Samaritan? In the parable, Jesus describes a man

who should have been an enemy demonstrates great compassion and care. 

We are all broken people in a broken world - may we find the strength to

follow the teaching of Christ and show compassion to each other.

Who gets your hospitality?

When on earth, Jesus invited the political and moral outcasts

to dine and listen to teachings. He made room for those who 

were not popular in the religious circles. Who do you make time for?

Matt 9:10-11