Imagine a community where we clothe ourselves in faith, love, and hope, where we build each other up rather than tear each other down. It seems to me that this can only be done when each member of the community is confident in their own worthiness and sense of belonging. I have noticed that when the words I use have the effect of tearing someone down, those words usually come from a place of fear, anxiety, and insecurity.
How can we, as individuals and as a faith community, affirm the worth and belonging of those who may feel otherwise? How can we be more hospitable, welcoming, and inclusive? What affect might that have on the people around us and on the way we relate to the world around us?
Offer a prayer of thanksgiving for the light of the Spirit that dwells within you and commit yourself to uncovering that light in your thoughts, attitudes, words, and actions.