Inclusion

One of my favorite scriptures passages from this week’s reading is found in Luke 9:46-50 “46 Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest. 47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him, 48 And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great. 49 And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us. 50 And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us.”

In these verses Jesus lovingly teaches us about humility and inclusion. He shows us that He loves all of us equally and that none of us is greater than another. I also feel He is asking us to not turn our nose up at anyone’s good works regardless of their religious affiliation, which I think is a common problem, especially in the religious community.

            Throughout the New Testament the Lord tells us to love others, be humble, and always forgive. It seems like an overwhelming task at times to be perfect like He is. He doesn’t expect that we will be perfect, but He does expect us to try. Setting goals and practicing these principles will help us to, over time, master them or at least get close. In this case of inclusion, reminding ourselves regularly that every person we come in contact with is a child of God and that He loves them just as much He loves us is a good place to start.