DAY 19: Welcome and Love
Day 19: Welcome and Love
Scripture: Ephesians 1:13 - “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.”
Reflection: Bearing the seal of the Holy Spirit is not just an individual marker of faith but a call to actively participate in God's love and outreach to others. When we accept Christ, we're unified with His Spirit, inherently called to reflect His love in our interactions with others. This union with the Spirit enables us to love in deeper, more generous ways beyond our natural capacity, directly influenced by the immense love we've been shown through Christ.
Our daily lives offer myriad opportunities to demonstrate this love to the world. Yet, in moments of stress or busyness, we might forget or miss the chance to extend grace, kindness, or understanding. Reflecting on God’s unconditional welcome to us, let us ask, how can we, too, embody such love and acceptance toward others? Start with simple gestures, a reassuring word, a listening ear, a forgiving heart, or a helping hand. These seemingly small acts become seeds of divine love sown in the fabric of community and family.
Embodying the Spirit’s mark means seeing each person as a beloved creation of God, worthy of compassion and respect. This Advent, as you prepare to celebrate Christ’s entry into the world, contemplate how you might better reflect His love in your daily encounters. Openness, kindness, and generosity are extensions of the Spirit's presence within us. Share the celebration of God's love generously, making God's welcome visible to those around you.
Action Item: Identify someone either in need or a person you've lost touch with. Reach out this week with a gesture of love or encouragement, showing them they are remembered and cherished.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for welcoming me into Your family and sealing me with Your Holy Spirit. Empower me to share Your love with others in both word and deed. Open my eyes to the needs around me and give me a heart ready to serve and welcome all in Your name. Amen.