Romans 15:7-13

“Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” vs. 7

As congregations advertise their presence to the public it’s become common to see the phrase “All Are Welcome” attached to their signage or included in their worship folders. In some congregations it’s everywhere. Seemingly no event or activity can be announced without those three words being included, “All Are Welcome.” Since the church has long had a reputation for being exclusive we should probably be glad to see this turn toward inclusivity. Certainly this is what Paul had in mind when he told the Jews and Gentiles in the Roman congregation to welcome one another as Christ had welcomed them all. But still we wonder and some are suspicious. It’s easy to adopt slogans, especially the ones that have become politically correct, and still maintain barriers. Could it be that some congregations are using the language of inclusion while still marginalizing newcomers and subtly excluding people who are different? Can folks sit in the pews yet not have a place at the table? Genuinely welcoming those who are different is one of the hardest things we can do as followers of Jesus. It’s not that long ago that we were killing each other. It’s good that our language is headed in the right direction. It may even be that some day our hearts and practices will follow.

Thought for the Day: Who might not feel welcome in my congregation?