A love that isn’t earned

I am currently sitting at Shechem in one of our classrooms with a newer six-year-old member, a board member, a Homes teenager, and a weekly volunteer. We’re listening to music and singing along together as we paint our pictures and explore what colors we can make when we mix paint together. 

Although our new member has only been coming to Shechem for two weeks, she has stolen all of our hearts with her smile, curiosity, cute conversations, and ability to eat 15 cookies in three hours. As I thought about this sweet member more, it brought me to Mark 10: "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." Children have a way of showing up as their true authentic selves and showing us that love isn't something we have to earn—it's something we receive. 

This little girl has reminded us of that childlike spirit. She came into Shechem as herself and was welcomed with open arms, just as Christ welcomes us into His family. In her laughter, wonder, and joy, we've been reminded to slow down, find joy in the simplicity, and receive God's love with the same openness and trust. 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of children and the joy they bring into our community. Help us to welcome others as freely as you welcome us and to never lose the faith, curiosity, and trust that children so naturally carry. I pray Hope Street continues to be a place where everybody who walks through our doors experiences that kind of welcome, belonging, and love.

Amen,

Lauren