welcome....?

"Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me."  (Matthew 10:40)

When I ask about magic words what do you think of?  For some of us the first thing we probably think of is "abracadabra" - right?  I want you to instead think of your grandparents, or parents, asking you what the "magic" word is when you want something.  I can hear the adult saying "what is the magic word?" and expecting a "please, thank you or I'm sorry" in response.  How are you doing at saying "please" or "thank you" or (maybe especially) "I'm sorry"?

The readings today are about trusting God's presence with us through all the changes and challenges.  In Genesis Abraham looks up, sees the ram, sacrifices the ram (instead of Isaac) and names the place "the Lord will provide." (Genesis 22:14)  In Romans we are reminded God IS with us, helping us to learn grow and make the changes needed. (Romans 6:22)  In the Gospel reading Jesus is pointing out how welcoming people welcomes Him.  Welcoming Jesus welcomes God (v. 40) so Emmanuel - God IS with us.  With us, and "will provide" for us, through all the changes and challenges happening in our lives.

So....  Are we asking God?  Are we TALKING to God?  Are we saying "I'm sorry" for NOT asking?  And...when we DO ask.... Are we REALLY believing God IS with us?  As Caregivers we have busy schedules that are, pretty much, constantly changing.  Are we taking the time to s-t-o-p to feel God's presence with us?  Do we REALLY believe God will provide the strength?  Something to think about...