The extravagant, excessive, reckless love of God.
Like radical hospitality, the love of God is extravagant, excessive and reckless by our standards. It is not sensible. It is not cautious. It is not concerned with reputation. It risks the raised eyebrow, the criticism, the whisper of disapproval.
At a service on Sunday, I prayed this during intercessions:
“God of all peoples and nations, we thank You for the good gift of belonging, of culture, of heritage, and of community. But Lord, we confess that what begins as love for one’s country can too easily harden into superiority, prejudice, and even hatred. When national pride tips into nationalism, it blinds us to the humanity of others. It fuels bigotry and racism, and it builds walls where You call us to build bridges.
We pray for those who arrive among us with nothing but hope, those who leave behind homes, histories, and loved ones in search of safety. Too often they are met with suspicion or rejection, when what they long for is shelter and welcome.
Lord, forgive us when fear shapes our response instead of love. Break down the barriers of suspicion and hostility. Teach us to see every stranger as a neighbour, every neighbour as a brother or sister, and every brother and sister as a bearer of Your image. May Your Church lead the way in showing radical hospitality, generous compassion, and courageous love.”
I wondered afterwards whether they were a bit close to the wire; whether they came across as more of a sermon than intercession. And maybe they did. But that’s because these really are concerns that sit heavily on my heart....
