A Party with Jesus
Do you love a good party? What makes it good? The host? The guests? The food? The drinks? The atmosphere?
Are you that person that can’t wait to walk into a room full of people because you thoroughly enjoy conversations? You love getting to know someone new. Being a “social butterfly” is your superpower. You thrive on connective conditions and you’re so comfortable in this setting that your heart is literally glowing.
Or…raise your hand if that last paragraph gave you hives. You have a hard time understanding the nature of noise and unpredictable chaos. You don’t particularly enjoy approaching people, and you’d rather hug the wall than do the hugging. You dread RSVPs and your joy comes from social distancing. :) In fact, the longer I discuss this particular topic the more you feel the need to go breathe in a paper bag.
Aren’t the tones and shades and personalities of life so beautiful and majestic? Experiencing it together should be like a celebration. Some of us are extreme. Some of us can feel like both examples. But I’m guessing most of us just want to be included and feel accepted. The human race is so unique and complex. God has created one person so differently from the next and that’s honestly what makes relationships, marriages, work environments, and friendships special and interesting…Or at least it should…
Unity is vital. It’s the common thread in any basic scenario. Humanity was created to be relational. It’s about belonging, helping, and serving with others. Psalm 133 begins with sweet aromas (oils) and ends with the sweet joys and possibilities of a Christian community. What I love most about these conversations are the similarities between Biblical times and life today. The fundamental differences will always circle back to His fundamental truths.
The host of life is Jesus. The party? His home. He will greet you as soon as you enter, with a welcoming smile and deeply kind eyes. He’ll set your mind at ease as He guides you through the room, introducing you to as many people as possible. You’ll begin to feel like you belong there. It’s a judgment-free zone and the only place you’ll ever feel comfortable. He’ll make sure that you’re fed. He’ll refill your drinks, find you a great seat at the table, and won’t ever leave you feeling alone. The environment is love, and you’ll leave with parting gifts of assurance, everlasting life, and hope.
Don’t neglect Him. Don’t stop telling people about Him. And don’t think that you’re ever alone or that you aren’t valuable enough to be part of His family. His party. His home.
He made you.
He has you.
He wants you.
He loves you.
And ALL are welcome.
-Lynae Petersheim
