Each Friday my writing stems from a word prompt. Five minutes, one word prompt. The prompt this week is ā¦ Include.
I stood in line waiting to be rung up, my groceries on the conveyor belt, and listening to the conversation. They were all friendly enough as they conversed and I had not heard the beginning of their talk.
The cashier stated to the couple, “I am proud of my Italian heritage. I may be stubborn but it has given me fortitude and besides, longevity also runs in my family.”
I smiled as I continued listening to them each share about their nationalities – the pros and cons of the traits they have inherited.
Upon seeing the word prompt this morning, the interaction and conversation came flooding back to mind. We can be so proud, or not so proud, of our backgrounds, as we identify and include ourselves among a group.
It’s funny how that works as it all fluxes depending on the accomplishments, or embarrassments of the group.
It is with the deepest of gratitude, overwhelming gratitude in fact, that I am included in God’s family …
“There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.” (Galatians 3:28-29, NLT)
We all come to Christ and receive the promises in Scripture the same way.
We all are included,
as we come to the Cross.
Today I am joining … Five Minute Friday and Faith On Fire and Fresh Market FridayĆĀ and Faith āĖN FriendsĆĀ .
I love hearing those kinds of conversations when Iām at the store too! And Iām so grateful to be included in Godās family too! Thanks for this smile today, Joanne!
I love these interactions as well. Probably why I am sure to go into my bank rather online, and to the small shops in our town. I would miss interacting with people as I go about running my errands.
I love reading about people intentionally connecting like this. It would have probably been the highlight of my day, overhearing. Glimpses of unrehearsed human interaction, when we just are… I love those…
As you can tell, it was the highlight of my day. It was a reminder to just be present where I am, listen and observe š
So very thankful that we (me too!) are all included in Christ’s invitation at the cross! Encouraging post!
Thank you. May we never lose our awe of Him!
It’s true we can take a lot of pride in our background and our nationality at times, but it’s even more amazing that we are included by God and part of his family!
It is truly humbling when we step back and realize all He has so graciously and mercifully invited us to be a part of! Blessings!
You eavesdropper you. LOL. I am JUST KIDDING. I thought “include” was an interesting and challenging prompt but then Holy Spirit took control of my keyboard and we wrote a post together!!!
The funny part is … I do not read a single post in the link up until after I have written and linked up my post š I get the word prompt from Twitter. Your post was wonderful by the way!
Wonderful post, Joanne. Thank you so much for writing it. Something I needed to hear today.
Blessings and prayers for you and Barbara!
I love this post Joanne! I am always delighted that wherever I travel in the world I have God’s family there to visit!
You’re always welcome to drop by for a cup of inspiration anytime!
Jennifer
It’s true – we can find “family” in the most unexpected of places.
And I enjoyed my visit with you š You have a lovely site!
That is one of my favorite verses, Joanne. The goal is to live like it – inclusively!