“I am honored all over the world. And there are people who know how to worship me all over the world, who honor me by bringing their best to me. They’re saying it everywhere: ‘God is greater, this God-of-the-Angel-Armies.’
MATTHEW 8:11 (MSG)
This man is the vanguard of many outsiders who will soon be coming from all directions—streaming in from the east, pouring in from the west, sitting down at God’s kingdom banquet alongside Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
SUMMARY SENTENCE
Jesus is leading outsiders into full participation in God’s kingdom.
DAILY FODDER
God's inclusion plan is so thorough that the outsiders aren't just allowed in the door but they have privileged places at the table.
PRAYER
God-of-the-angel-armies, you use your great power for hospitality rather than exclusion. Forgive our failure to function with such radical welcome. We're suspicious of immigrants and refugees and hesitant to spend money on anyone outside our own tribe—on anyone who might not benefit us. Change our hearts and broaden our approach so that it is second nature to treat outsiders as insiders. I want to become a greeter in your kingdom. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER (ABP)
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
Give us enough food for today.
Forgive us our wrongdoing,
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
