Expanding the Family Circle
OPENING PRAYER:
Father, expand our hearts to embrace the family You have given us in Christ. May we be instruments of Your love and grace, drawing others into Your family. Amen.
"Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone."
Ephesians 2:19-22 (NIV)
REFLECT:
The pastor shared his personal experience of growing up in a loving family, emphasizing the importance of protecting and caring for one another. This sense of family extends beyond our biological ties to include the family of God, where we are all members of His household.
In Ephesians 2, Paul reminds us that we are no longer strangers but members of God's family, built on the foundation of Christ. The pastor challenged us to expand our family circle to include those who are vulnerable and in need, reflecting the heart of God’s kingdom.
Reflect on the foster care crisis highlighted in the message. These children are in need of a family, a place where they are loved and protected. The pastor urged us to see them as part of our family in Christ and to extend our love and support to them.
As you ponder this passage, consider how you can expand your family circle to include those who are vulnerable and in need. Ask God to give you the courage and compassion to reach out and embrace them as part of His family.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will defend the vulnerable with my time or resources. Pathway partners with CarePortal to help meet the needs of those in crisis in our community. Our Foster Care Awareness website (pathwaychurch.com/fostercare) has more info on how you can help.
If you would like to learn more about other ways you can serve, like babysitting, providing temporary respite, what it takes to be a licensed foster family, or helping with food or prayer, Pathway Church will be hosting an informational meeting on August 17, 6:00pm at the Westlink Campus. This is a no pressure meeting to discover how everyone can play a part in supporting families. You can find out more by clicking here.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Gracious Father, thank You for making us part of Your family. Help us to expand our family circle and embrace those You have called us to love. May our lives reflect Your heart and bring glory to Your name. Amen.