We have all felt like the outsider at some point in our lives. When we feel lonely or isolated, we want so badly for someone on the inside to come close and draw us in.

This scenario that Mark tells us about is a reality that many of us live everyday; and it becomes most real at lunchtime. Whether you are 15 or 55 years old, there is always a debate about where to sit and who to sit with at lunch. It is easy to sit with our friends, but look around — is anyone isolated?

Jesus teaches us that to love one another is to be in relationship, no matter what. We may disagree, we may think that we have nothing in common with someone, but Jesus tells us to look past that. See beyond the differences and seek one another out. Follow the example of Christ, risk a little awkwardness or ridicule, and see how you connect to your fellow human beings, your brothers and sisters in Christ.

By Ashley Lytle from D365