“Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me” (Matthew 10:40).
Do we see Christ in another? If Christ is in us and in all who believe, then when encountering another we receive one who is an image bearer. This is not some mystic exposition, but a mystery of the Lord’s presence and our willingness to learn how to love our neighbor as ourselves. The world is cold and harsh and we are called to be merciful, kind, and loving. If, in Christ’s name you are received, then be welcomed.
Lord, this is not conditional, but reflects the reality of a world where people want all kinds of things, but do not know how to love. Lord, You send me into a world that cares about itself and no one else. It is the world I came from. Help me to see the reality of these two worlds. Help me to abide with Your Holy Spirit and humbly go as You send me, doing what You give me to do.
Lord Jesus, You went from town-to-town healing those in need. You did not heal everyone, but those who believed were healed. There are so many things I do not understand, but You have revealed to me the truth that I must humbly follow You always. Lead me in the way You know I need to go. Help me to not hold back because of circumstances, or even my thoughts, but to press on toward the goal of knowing even as I have always been known. Amen.
