“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God — children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” -John 1:12-13

Even though our shame and prevents us from being vulnerable and connecting deeply with others, thankfully, we have hope in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel says that all my shame and mistakes died on the cross with Jesus.  It says that I am loved as I am and in my baptism I received an adoption that can never be lost. Now, I belong to a family that will never abandon me. You belong! You belong to the family of God and you are loved! That will never be lost! You are worthy of love and belonging. Believe it because it’s true. It is the gospel and it is the great news.

PRAYER: Thank you, God, for Jesus. You take away my shame and invite me to belong to your family. I am so loved by you.

REFLECTION: Do you feel like a part of God’s family?