Life seems to be full of approval and rejection.

• Approval brings rest.
• Rejection stirs fear.

Approval includes connecting, relationship building and community.   Approval is welcoming and a place for belonging.

Rejection is the opposite. It’s that moment when someone has exposed your failings, shortcomings and flaws. You know the moment when your brain floods with memories of dumb decisions and poor choices.

Rejection is when brokenness and despair call your name. Guilt rises and shame wants to encase you. Someone announces, “You are not wanted!”

It’s that moment in time, just after you’ve been rejected, that God loves to show up. Abba whispers, “You can sit in their rejection, or you are welcome to come join us. It’s a heavenly, family gathering.” Jesus says. “I’ve saved you a seat. Sit here, next to me.” You look up and notice the Holy Spirit is there wearing a T shirt.  It has your name on it. The front says your name. The back reads, “So, LOVED!” There’s more. Just below, in fine print, is more writing. It reads, “You will never, ever, ever be rejected here!”

Your spirit runs to join them.

Prayer

Father, thank you for your never-ending love. Jesus thank you for preparing a place for me. Holy Spirit thanks for knowing my name and welcoming me.

Bible

There is not an exact story similar to the one above. But the Prodigal Son story has a great, similar ending.

(Read more at DoctorMarriage.org)