– Today’s Community Scripture – 12/12/2024

“How can I account for the people of this generation? They’re like spoiled children complaining to their parents, ‘We wanted to skip rope and you were always too tired; we wanted to talk but you were always too busy.’ John the Baptizer came fasting and you called him crazy. The Son of Man came feasting and you called him a lush. Opinion polls don’t count for much, do they? The proof of the pudding is in the eating.”

Luke 7:31–35 (MSG)

– Reflection:

Is This What You Were Expecting?

Jesus was a friend to sinners because he was sent to save them and us. He lived as a healer and a restorer for those who had lost their way. Someone once said, “A true friend walks in when everybody else walks out. A true friend doesn’t rub it in when you make a mistake; they help rub it out.” This perfectly describes what Jesus did, and it’s a model for how we should act. This doesn’t mean we overlook wrongdoings or pretend they never happened. Instead, we must recognize that, without God’s grace, we, too, could need healing. When you show mercy to those who have erred, encourage the discouraged, and lift others up when everyone else is pushing them down, your actions profoundly touch God’s heart.

– Where do we go from here?

Are you attentive to the needs of those around you? When you make it a priority to befriend and assist God’s children—His sons and daughters—by wiping away their tears or lifting them up when they are feeling down, be prepared: you will not be able to escape God’s goodness.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for the people You have placed in our lives and for the special role You have given us as a friend. Thank You for the way our words of encouragement can bring healing and renewed strength. Please help us see who we can befriend and uplift today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.