Well, we just got a wake-up call:
Wake up!
Here’s how:
Wake up to Four Acts of Love
1. Radical Hospitality
In a world that’s more hostile than hospitable, we love. Instead of judging (that’s expected), we love with listening ears, open arms, and Jesus hearts. Barbara Huisman, one of our ministry friends, says there’s a razor-thin edge between us all that makes each one of us the “least, lost, and lonely.” In truth, we all need Radical Hospitality. Her ministry welcomes the homeless who walk through her doors as warmly as those who drive up in their BMWs.
2. Fearless Conversation
When it comes to church, people expect lectures and squelched questions. That must change! For example, when we asked preteens about their concerns, they barraged us with faith questions. Finally, one exasperated girl exclaimed, “Why can’t we ask questions like this at church?”
3. Genuine Humility
This act of love requires us to “do unto others as we would have them do unto us.” Ahh, the evergreen golden rule. ‘Nuff said.
4. Divine Anticipation
This means living in the mystery and wonder of God. We can watch for—and talk about—God’s reality, presence, and action in our lives today. We call that “God Sightings.” Even preschoolers can do this. They (we) can watch for God and recognize kindness, the beauty in creation, the warmth of a hug. Simply acknowledging God reminds you and others he matters.
Pray:
Jesus, let your love flow through me. Take away my fears. Give me your eyes to see past invisible differences like beliefs, values, political views, and lifestyles. Help me look past visible differences like clothing, skin color, age, gender, and economic status. Sprinkle my conversations with you and your love. Infuse me with your humility. Help me see your divine actions all around. Empower me to love with radical hospitality, fearless conversation, genuine humility, and divine anticipation. In your loving name, amen.
