Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”
1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Mac's Message Translation:
‍Not many of you were impressive when I met you. In fact, you were kind of a bunch of losers. But that’s good news! Why? Because God has always used losers just like you to accomplish His work in the world. Now remember: since you’re a bunch of losers, there’s no room for boasting. You can only boast in God, cuz you’re a bunch of losers!

Bottom Line

God works through weakness.

If this is the way God works, what are we called to be like?

1. We are to minister on the margins.
2. We are to be a hospital for the hurting.
3. We are to be known for loving rather than judging.
4. We are to prioritize being faithful over appearing successful.

Action Steps

Prayerful Reflection

• Who are the “overlooked” people that I tend to avoid or ignore?
• Where does judging people get in the way of me loving people?
• How is God inviting me to participate in his redemptive mission?
  

Practice

• Practice intentional hospitality here at church:
  Engage those you haven’t met, learn people’s names & stories, sit with someone who is alone, invite them over to lunch or to your small group.
• Practical intentional hospitality in your neighborhood:
  Get to know your neighbors, learn their names & stories, invite them over for a meal, offering a helping hand.