Welcome becomes believable when it leaves room for trust to grow. On the church steps, a man rests his hand near a small brown rabbit and lets the distance between them remain unforced. Beneath the sign that says “All are welcome,” this patient gesture gives the words a human expression.
“Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.”
Romans 15:7 (KJV)
Paul writes these words to believers learning to live together despite differences in conviction and practice. He points them toward Christ’s welcome as the foundation for their own. Receiving one another requires more than sharing a room; it asks for the patience to make another person feel they have a place there.
The offered hand makes a tender companion to that teaching. It allows closeness without demanding it, reminding us that kindness can respect another’s hesitation. A newcomer may need time before joining a conversation or feeling comfortable enough to stay.
We can help by making a simple introduction, offering a seat, or remembering a name without expecting immediate familiarity in return. May our welcome have enough patience in it for someone else to begin feeling at home.