Today is August 27.


The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.  
  
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
   
Today’s reading is from the gospel of John, chapter 15.  
  

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other. “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.  
  

Have you ever felt like you didn't belong? Maybe at a wedding where you didn't know anyone else but the bride, or at work where everyone seems to leave you out. Or you may even feel that way in your own family. Everyone experiences times when they feel alienated from others. No one likes feeling different. Call to mind a situation where you yourself felt as if you didn't belong. 
  
God created us for connection. As you hear these words of Jesus again, listen for a particular phrase that stands out to you, and talk to the Lord about what it brings up for you. 
   
The next time you feel like you don't belong, try to remember that you are not alone.  
You are meant to stand out as a beacon of hope in the darkness.  As we end our time of prayer, ask God to draw near to you, and to remind you of his faithfulness.

Music: Restore - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)