God gives a warm welcome.
God’s love is open to everyone, and we’re invited to show that in how we live. Being open means making space for others, offering welcome, and sharing what we have. That could be our time, our home, our story, or even just a kind word. This week, we’ll think about where we might be more generous and more welcoming. Sometimes, small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Mini-adventures
Pick one of these challenges to try out this week. As you do it, pay attention to the ways in which God might show up.
- Share a simple meal (or coffee) with someone you don’t usually eat with. But remember to think about safety if you don’t know them well. (Or go somewhere and see how you feel welcomed to that place)
- Choose one hour to be deliberately generous - give time, encouragement, or practical help; if you’re able, make a small gift or “pay it forward.”
Get talking
Hospitality and generosity flow naturally from a heart opened by God. In Acts, Lydia listens to the good news, opens her heart, and then opens her home - and a new church begins around her table.
Acts 16:11-15 - Lydia’s hospitality
- What do you notice about Lydia - her openness, initiative, and welcome?
- How does her opened heart lead to an open home?
- Who might God be inviting you to welcome or listen to this week?
- How might God be inviting you to respond to this passage?
Get inspired
- What do you notice in this artwork?
- How does it make you feel?
Church song
Let us build a house where love can dwell (StF 409)
Secular song
Get deeper
God’s love is open to everyone, and as Christians, we’re invited to live that openness in our relationships and communities. Let’s explore what the Church really is.
- The Church has different gifts for helping others. What is one skill you could use this week to encourage or serve someone?
- How does being part of your local church connect you to the wider community of God’s people?
- What stops you from growing closer to your church or community, and how could you overcome it?
Prayer
Loving God,
You are the Father who runs to meet us,
the Mother who embraces us with open arms.
Thank you for your boundless love and forgiveness,
even when we wander far from you.
Holy Spirit, guide us home.
Help us to return to you with open hearts,
and to celebrate when others do the same.
Teach us to love without judgment,
to forgive as we have been forgiven,
and to welcome all into your grace.
May we reflect your mercy in our lives,
and share the joy of your reign with everyone we meet.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.