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Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Inclusion: Embrace Through Action

I just returned from the Accessibility Disability Summit in the Washington. D.C. Area. It was sponsored by McLean Bible Church. What I find interesting is that people are often surprised that a church runs this conference. The word accessible is often identified with persons affected by disabilities. It is a word that is used often in disability advocacy circles. I often assume a church will respond to advocacy for a more inclusive environment. I, along with many others, am surprised when I see the church leading the way in an area that our society is still emerging in acceptance.

What I learn from this is: The local church is to be involved with all people. There are difficult and messy situations that present themselves to Christians everywhere.

 

I John 3:18

Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but in action and in truth.

People often feel alone. Kind words are nice but walking with them through difficulties is even better. There are some many people who need to feel included. There are people who are struggling physically. This may mean health problems, injury, disability or slowing down with old age. Many others have emotional challenges. These may stem from divorce, death, broken relationships and/or trauma. There can be struggles financially and with work. Conflict can come and cause havoc in people's lives. The bottom line is "life is messy."

People need others to walk along side them through life's difficulties. It may be a meal, a gift card or a listening ear at Starbucks. It might be an invitation for a family to join your's for a holiday. I have seen lots of examples but it takes a willingness to step out of my/your comfort zone. This is about "out of the box" living.

How does this look for you? Well, that's between you and God! As you seek the Lord's will in this area, the Spirit of God will lead you. That's one thing Jesus promised: the Holy Spirit would aid his followers. So thankful for the work of the Holy Spirit!