Women of Welcome: Christ-Like WelcomeSample

Welcome that Forgives

Thoughtful Questions:

1. Read this prayer aloud (in your group or by yourself). Read it slowly and mindfully. Pause after each sentence to let the meaning sink in.

2. Think about this prayer through the filter of God’s welcome toward us and toward others. How does that recalibrate our understanding of his instructions in this prayer?

3. Sometimes the welcome God wants us to give is not intended to be a public or outward showing but one done “in secret,” in our hearts. Forgiveness often is one of those inward acts of private welcome. Is there someone God is inviting you to forgive?

4. What is the “heartwork” that God may be trying to do in you in this space of forgiveness? If you are finding it difficult to forgive someone who has hurt or betrayed you, you can still offer a prayer for God to do his work of restoration and healing in your heart. He knows and understands your pain and honors your desire to forgive.