A Gospel That Welcomes

Take 2-3 minutes to quiet yourself and ask God to speak to you today through your devotional time.  

Reading: Matthew 23:13–15; Luke 15:1–7

Be sure to highlight or note anything that stands out to you while you read.  
After reading the passage, take the next 5-10 minutes and spend time reflecting on what you read. You can write these things down in a journal or record them in your phone. Be attentive to both what you highlighted in the passage and what is going on in your life.

Jesus welcomed those the religious system rejected. The Pharisees guarded the door to God with rules, superiority, and shame—but Jesus opened the door wide with mercy. True disciples don’t push people away; they help them find their way home. Every barrier we build—preference, pride, or prejudice—contradicts the heart of the Shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine for the one.
Ask yourself today: Am I making it easier or harder for others to encounter Jesus? Your life is meant to be a bridge that leads people to the Father.

Now, take 10 minutes to seek God in prayer…  

1. Begin your time in prayer by taking 1-3 minutes to sit in silence (You can take longer if you sense the Spirit already beginning to speak to you).  
2. Pray through the things you sensed God speaking to you through the Scriptures or pray the following prayer: “Lord, give me Your heart for the one who feels far from You. Help me build bridges of compassion, not walls of judgment.”
   
3. Close by taking 5 minutes to sit in silence, asking God if there is anything else He wants to speak to you today.  

Take Action:

1. Ask God to show you one person who needs encouragement or invitation today—reach out to them.
   
   
2. Examine one attitude or preference that may unintentionally create barriers; surrender it to God.