I wrapped a small gift for my sister’s birthday. I hope she won’t mind that it’s a day late when I give it to her at church.

There’s a youth worker’s meeting today and that means half of the worship team will be at the main church. I won’t see my son, daughter-in-law, or sister-in-law because of the meeting.

My friends took her parents south for an extended trip. A lot of familiar faces will be missing. I felt a gentle rebuke when I read this verse:

Matthew 9:12-13, “Jesus, overhearing, shot back, ‘Who needs a doctor: the healthy or the sick? (13) Go figure out what this scripture means: “I’m after mercy, not religion.” I’m here to invite the outsiders, not coddle insiders.’ ” The Message

There are many faces at church that I still do not know. And gratefully, there are always new faces!

One thing God has told me is to accept people right where they are. Because God accepts me right where I am. Hurting people come to church and we try to patch them up with religion.

Matthew 9:16, “He went on, ‘No one cuts up a fine silk scarf to patch old work clothes; you want fabrics that match.’ ” The Message

God heals from the inside out. They have to believe first. Jesus restores every facet of our lives: spirit, soul, and body.

Matthew 9:35, “Then Jesus made a circuit of all the towns and villages. He taught in their meeting places, reported kingdom news, and healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives.” The Message

Our job is to love people and pray for them. We point them to the Savior, not rescue them ourselves. We cannot be their source.

“…love people and pray for them, but spend your time with those who are willing to be helped.” The Word for You Today, 1-5-19

Did you meet someone new at church today?

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