Welcome In the Outcast and the Least Among Us

“I was hungry and you fed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was an outsider and you welcomed me...” Jesus called His disciples blessed by His heavenly Father, and it left them confused about when they had ever served Him in this way. He explained to them how whatever is done for the least of our brothers and sisters is done to Him (Matthew 25:31-46).

How would we treat Jesus if He walked into our church? Our challenge today is this: to care for the least among us. Who is the outsider? Who are the broken? Who are those who have been cast out? Who needs to be welcomed in? Who are the poor in our community? What friends do we need to reconcile with and care for? Can we care for those who hurt us (Matthew 5:43-47)?

This challenge comes with a testimony of joy. My family was welcomed to South Tulsa Baptist when we felt like strangers and outsiders. I remember feeling out of place and scared. It was the staff here and their kids, who are now my close brothers and friends, who invited me in while I was an outsider. For that, I am forever thankful. Much of our ministry in the church has been welcoming international outsiders. What a joy it is to serve others!

What a JOY! However, this is what we must remember: it will be hard. This type of joy must be fought for. There will be many moments in caring for one another and welcoming others where that joy does not appear worth it. When the ups and downs of life and caring for real people become messy, we must remember: the way we serve others is the way we serve Jesus Himself.

Again, I am so thankful for those who welcomed me in and entered into my mess while I was an outsider. I challenge us to continue to do this as a church body, for our King, King Jesus.

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