This past Sunday, we discovered that Jesus went to parties —so much so that you might even call him a party animal! If you missed out on the fun, you can still join the party by clicking here to watch or listen to the sermon.

Jesus loved these gatherings because he loves people, including those who don’t yet know him. Parties are wonderful opportunities for him to share, show, and celebrate God's love in the world. Although Jesus never organized formal parties, he frequently created them by feeding and healing people, teaching them about God's love and wisdom. He exhibited great compassion for everyone, especially the poor, weak, and marginalized, who usually don't get invited to parties, but felt truly included in the gatherings he created.

As followers of Jesus, we have the incredible opportunity to be part of both small and large celebrations that he inspires even today. We get to be the ones through whom Jesus spreads joy and celebrates God's love as we share it with others in micro-parties wherever we might be. Be alert today to engage in those relationships outside your normal circles. How can you share, show, and celebrate God's love with others - even in simple ways? 

Start your day in prayer, asking God to show you how Jesus is causing a party to happen through you. Maybe it's lending a helpful hand, listening to the troubles of another, praying for healing, providing someone a ride, or inviting them to receive God's uncontainable love for them. I mentioned this prayer on Sunday, that I regularly pray for God to help me love those around me. Feel free to use this prayer in a way that best enables you to have God's heart for those who are part of your OUT relationships. Remember from two Sundays ago, Jesus had three directions of relationships - Up, In, and Out. "Up" is with God as our leader. "In" is with fellow disciples as teammates, "Out" is with those outside of the church - the crowds - who were Jesus' mission to share God's love and invite them to be part of the community that follows him.  This prayer helps me to participate in Jesus' parties in all relationships. Please make use of this prayer in any way that aids you: 

Help me, Lord:

Pursue  the best for every person encountered

Value their story with care and curiosity

Be Honest in all interactions

Encourage the good with exuberance

Correct the bad with grace

Be corrected in humility

Receive gratefully

Give generously, sacrificially, and cheerfully

May Jesus cause some parties in your life this week. 

Grace and Peace, 

Drew