In the Roman and Jewish society where Jesus was ministering there were many trends that said ”no” to people. Jesus changed all this. Through Him, all kinds of suffering people groups were seen, noticed and welcomed. Children that seldom were given any attention and that even were chased away by the disciples, got to hear a huge, big ”yes” through Jesus. He gave them time and attention through His principle: ”Let the children come to me, don’t hinder them…”. The Samaritans were visited by Jesus when He walked through their forbidden area where Jews never walked. There a woman with a life in pieces got a brand, new start, and a whole city through her testimony. The list could be made long: Jesus touched all kinds of suffering, rejected people. He saw them, loved on them and changed their whole life situation.
If you ask me which word inspires me this fall it is this simple, tiny, little word YES. In a world where many experience a ”no”, where they can’t be part of a fellowship, where they are not seen or loved, it is wonderful to be part of a tribe that believes in and has felt a great, big “yes” through a Jesus that welcomes. With all of my heart I wish that this YES can be felt when people enter the church, when they visit our café for the first time, when they come for brunch and worship on a Sunday or when they take part in the food distribution on Thursdays.
The word YES, a word of acceptance, open arms and home-coming. What an important signal.
Pastor Camilla