Inclusive Friends

If you go to school (or have ever been to school), you can probably think of a few people who tend to be ‘on the outer’. Sometimes these people might not have a close group of friends, or they might act a little differently. Maybe you feel you are or have been, someone like that yourself. When people are left out, it can be discouraging and make them feel unhappy.

Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus spend most of his time with people who weren’t popular or whom others looked down on in their culture. He had fishermen as his closest friends, he visited the houses of tax collectors, and he ate with people who were considered ‘sinful’ or ‘unclean’. Jesus showed great care and love for these people who didn’t fit in or who weren’t cared for by others.

This is how we should live, too. Like Jesus, we should show love and care to everyone around us, including those who may not fit in as easily. If you think back to the beginning of this series, you might remember that we have all been made in the image of God, which means we all deserve dignity and respect. We are free to be friends with people like us, but God wants us to be kind to people who are not like us as well, especially those who need a friend.

If you are someone who feels ‘on the outer’, remember that God loves you more than anyone.

Questions: 

1. Have you ever felt left out by friends or classmates? How did it make you feel? 
2. Why do you think it’s important to look out for others who might be feeling left out? 
3. Can you think of someone you know who might need a friend? How could you show them that God loves them?

Prayer:

Loving Father, thank you for loving me so much that you sent Jesus to die for my sake. Help me to live like Jesus did and show love and care for everyone around me, even if they’re different from me. When I feel left out, please help me to remember how much you love me and care for me. Amen.