A lot of homeowners in my area have “No Trespassing” signs on their property. I put one up as well (long story). The same kind of signs are around the perimeter of the walking trails, with the addition that violators will be prosecuted. The 120 acres of trails belong to the homeowner’s association. I’ve been making good use of them, exploring and enjoying the quiet and beauty of the woods.
As I came across one of these signs, I had the happy thought that I was neither trespassing nor violating – I belonged there. I continued on my walk, thinking that having a sense of belonging is such a wonderful thing. We all want to be included, to feel wanted, accepted and loved. Many don’t experience this and as a result, look for belonging and acceptance in harmful ways.
For Christians, belonging is found in Jesus. We are his and he is ours. In John 17, we are told we have been given to him by the Father and all who belong to Jesus also belong to him. Sometimes we can feel a bit left out, lonely or isolated, but reading the conversation between Jesus and his Abba reminds us we are his forever, kept safe and protected by the great love shared by Father, Son and Spirit. He never tells us to keep out. If he did hang up a sign, it would say “All are welcome; come to the place I have prepared for you, beloved of my Father.”