Devotional Resource
Available in 8 Languages
Full Color Digital PDF
Printer-Friendly PDF
Translations Available:
CHINESE (SIMPLIFIED)
增长欢迎
FRENCH
Cultiver Des Coeurs
Accueillants
ITALIAN
Coltivare Cuori di
Benvenuto
KISWAHILI
Kukuza Mioyo
Inayokaribisha
PORTUGUESE
Corações Mais
Acolhedores
SPANISH
Cultivando Corazones
de Bienvenida
TAGALOG
Pagpapalago ng
Pusong Tumatanggap
UKRAINIAN
Зрощення доброзичливих
сердець
In cultures around the world there are families with unique challenges that make them different than what may be considered the norm, especially at a time when mass migration for various reasons—war, gang violence, political and religious repression, lack of opportunities, and poverty—is in process in many parts of our planet today. Also, there are families with members who are experiencing neurodiversity, and a host of other physical, emotional and psycho-social challenges, in addition to racial, ethnic, nationality and language differences. As Christians, it is essential to approach this reality with love, compassion, and understanding, guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ. Two key passages from the Bible, John 13:35 and Matthew 25:40, provide a foundation for embracing and supporting diverse families within our communities.
In John 13:35, Jesus declares, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” This verse emphasizes the importance of demonstrating love and acceptance towards others, regardless of what their family looks like, sounds like, or is challenged by. As followers of Christ, we are called to extend love and support to all families.
To be sure, Matthew 25:40 states, “And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’” This passage highlights the significance of caring for and serving those who may be marginalized or vulnerable in communities where we live and work. By offering support, resources, and understanding to diverse families, we are ultimately serving Christ and fulfilling the great commandment (Matt. 22:39).
To effectively minister to diverse families, it is crucial to approach them with an open mind and a willingness to listen and learn. By setting aside preconceived notions and judgments—even when their practices are not compatible with what we believe to be the truth—we can better appreciate the unique challenges and strengths of each family unit. Through this awareness, we can provide tailored support and guidance, helping families to thrive and grow in their faith.
As Christians, we are called to extend love, compassion, and acceptance to all families, regardless of how different they might be to us. By embracing the teachings of John 13:35 and Matthew 25:40, we can create a welcoming and supportive environment that celebrates the diversity of families within our communities, ultimately reflecting the love of Christ to the world.
Our prayer is that this devotional resource will help lead your family to a place of greater understanding, kindness, empathy, and compassion. That by so doing, you will in essence become the hands, feet, and heart of God to every family in need, and help hasten the coming of Jesus Christ.
Remain encouraged and faithful.
Willie and Elaine Oliver, Directors
Adventist Family Ministries
Seventh-day Adventist Church
World Headquarters
