The Power of Belonging: Finding Family in a Broken World
At the heart of God’s design is a deep desire for each of us to experience the love and strength that comes from being part of a family where we are loved and accepted. Yet, for many, this sense of belonging remains an unfulfilled longing.
A Glimpse into the Lives of the Marginalized
I was struck by the harsh reality of loneliness during a recent encounter at a coffee bar ministry that reaches out to the marginalized and addicted. A young man, struggling with addiction, sat across from me, his restless energy and anxious behavior a testament to the turmoil that plagued his life. As I listened, I sensed God’s desire to speak directly to his heart, to offer him a message of hope and love.
A Message of Unconditional Love
In that moment, I felt compelled to share a “destiny word” with him – a message from God’s heart to his. I told him that God loved him deeply and longed to be a Father to him, to provide the love and acceptance he so desperately craved. The words were too much for him to bear, and he fled, unable to confront the emotions and desires that had been stirred within him.
The Universal Longing for Connection
We all yearn for connection, whether through blood ties or as part of the Christian community. Our deepest desire is to belong, to know that we are loved and accepted, no matter what. This is why God’s promise to “set the lonely in families” (Psalm 68:6) resonates so deeply within us.
Becoming Family to Those Around Us
So, how can we embody this promise in our daily lives? How can we be a source of love, acceptance, and belonging to those around us? Today, take a moment to consider how you can be someone’s family, offering a sense of connection and community to those who need it most.
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