Come, Join the Family Wortechologies Christian Information

JOHN 13:35 (KJV)
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

When we arrived, a thin, old man with a scruffy beard and a gentle-looking lady sat comfortably talking on the bench just outside the inn where we were staying for the weekend. Their conversation was relaxed and easy; it was obvious they were old friends. At the other end of the parking lot another group of people chatted quietly. And when we made our way toward our room, the hall was literally lined with people obviously waiting for others to join them. The ambiance was amazing. Later we discovered that we were the only strangers in the mix--all the rest of these folks were in town for a family reunion.

What a family this was! There was joy and laughter, good clean conversation, and lots and lots of love, even though it looked as if some of them had seen their share of troubles.

The next evening while looking for a cup of coffee, I accidentally walked in on the family preparing for supper. I apologized for interrupting their get- together, and a friendly voice called out, "Oh, we're just having family-reunion leftovers for dinner."

"That sounds good!" I replied as I started out the door.

"Well, come on in and eat with us. Come join the family!"

I politely declined the offer, but I honestly believe they would have welcomed me at their table, and I would have been blessed to be among them.

Dear Christian, when was the last time you were that warm and welcoming and inviting to someone outside of the family of God? As children of the King, we have unlimited blessings to offer and eternity to share with the world around us.

Heavenly Father, help us as Your children to let the warmth of family love be evident to those who do not know You. Remind us to be faithful in inviting others to come join the family.

About the Author
Dr. Ann Shorb is the founder of Christian Counseling & Educational Services, an accomplished professional speaker, and the author of A Light for My Path, a weekly email devotional. Ann Shorb may be contacted at http://www.ccesonline.com/. Click here to view more articles by Ann Shorb.