“The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come… Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests.
matthew 22:2,3, 9-11 ESV
The news can be so discouraging. Walls and wars, division and desperation. To be a welcomer, a gatherer, a kingdom bringer is counter-cultural, but there are brave, creative people stepping out and making room for everyone. I thought I’d share some of their stories to encourage you this weekend.
Our friend and pastor, Jeff Cowmeadow, and his wife Randi opened The Prodigal Pub this spring. If you live in the Twin Cities, go!
Randi says, “We’ve chosen the story of the prodigal son returning home and being celebrated with food and drink as an inspiration to welcome and celebrate all. The Prodigal Pub is a Public-a place for all people-and a House-a home-for connections and reconnections. No matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done, you are welcome here.”
Ironically, Brad is planting a church for those in recovery! Check out Recovering Love Church!
My friend, Vanessa recognizes that under-resourced people around the world step up and face their fears daily, so she is facing one of hers (sky-diving!) to raise money for World Vision! Check it out!
Love Anyway is a book I want to read by Jeremy Courtney who runs Preemptive Love – an organization whose goal is to go where no one else will go, and love who no one else will love. Has anyone read this yet?
And just for fun…
Have a great weekend!
