We all long to be welcomed, to sense that our presence is wanted, valued and esteemed. Our core identity is formed in the safe embrace and in being truly seen and greeted by the loving eyes of parents and elders. This form of hospitality is the extension of God’s hospitality towards us. One again, Jesus invites us to return to the basics, the essence of why he came – to welcome all his children, that they may find and make their home in him. Experience afresh, Jesus welcoming you home to him. When you are ready, he will show you how to notice and welcome the child in your midst.
Mark 9:33-37 (NLT)
After they arrived at Capernaum and settled in a house, Jesus asked his disciples, “What were you discussing out on the road?” 34 But they didn’t answer, because they had been arguing about which of them was the greatest. 35 He sat down, called the twelve disciples over to him, and said, “Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.”
36 Then he put a little child among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me.”
For Reflection and Prayer:
What phrase or word spoke to you as you listened/read?
How does Jesus call you to be a servant to everyone else?
Who are the “little children” in your life?
Think back to a time when you experienced a sincerely warm welcome. What made it so memorable for you?
Perhaps you want to be the child who is held in Jesus’ arms. Meet him there in your prayer.
What do you want to say to Jesus in response to this text?