Our August series, We Are Family, has explored the purpose each of us has in the place we currently find ourselves. In every stage of life, we seek meaning. Without condition and without merit, there is one place we will always find belonging and purpose - that is in the heart of God.

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Preparation for worship on August 27

We Are Family​

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Sunday, August 21

Devotional: Thanksgiving at Pontius Pilate’s Mom’s House and Where We Belong

 

John 14:6-7

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is. From now on, you do know him and have seen him!”

 

Revealed Sovereign, you made yourself known through your Son. You provided clarity so your unconditional grace, your unending faithfulness, and your reckless love would be displayed without question. Thank you for calling me your child. I belong to you. Amen.

 

Music: I Belong to Jesus

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Monday, August 22

Devotional: Where I Found Belonging

 

Colossians 3:12-15

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

 

Forgiving God, your heart aches for those who are marginalized, excluded, and abused. Your greatest distress comes when this is caused by those called by your name. However, you are still found when your body on earth acts with your love and compassion. Direct me to be an asset in my community, embracing and comforting those who seek belonging and peace. Amen.

 

Music: They Will Know We Are Christians

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Tuesday, August 23

Devotional: Belonging is a Two-Way Street

 

Matthew 7:12

Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.

 

Holy Parent, your children are diverse and varied. Within your Kingdom of Life, you designed with great creativity – not wanting to duplicate, but prioritizing individuality and uniqueness. Help me to find beauty in all you have created, knowing our commonality is in our God and your unfailing love for us all. Amen.

 

Music: The Goodness

 

Wednesday, August 24

Devotional: A Safe Space to be Vulnerable

 

Galatians 6:2

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.

 

Gentle Savior, you entered humanity to connect with your creation. You walked this earth wanting to be approached, to hear stories, and to offer belonging. Open my heart to embrace others with mercy and grace. Amen.

 

Music: The Place Where I Belong

 

Thursday, August 25

Devotional: Moving from Accessibility to Belonging

 

Psalm 139:13-14

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it.

 

Marvelous Creator, you formed the earth and all those who inhabit it with intention and purpose. You have placed your image on each soul, and you delight in your children. Help me to accept myself as you made me and to seek to reveal your love to everyone I meet. Amen.

 

Music: Love Song (Before You Formed the Earth)

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Friday, August 26

Devotional: Give Us Eyes for the Lonely

 

Galatians 6:9-10

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.

 

Holy Comforter, you populate the empty seats in worship, waiting to offer relief to those who arrive burdened. You bring hope and healing, and you seek to be found in the touch and words of your people. Make me more aware of those around me so that I can be a instrument of your mercy. Amen.

 

Music: As for Me

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