Communities Expanded by the Cross
Stories | February 23, 2024
On the cross we see that Jesus Love expands to all people.
During the season of Lent, we will be reflecting on the theme of expanded communities #Expandedcommunities. Expanded communities continually make room and adjust to include others. They are mobilised by Jesus’ love for all people; his arms stretched out on the cross. Expanded communities recognise that every person has dignity, created in the image of God. They are enriched as they make room for others, who each come with unique perspectives and contributions.
People with disabilities often face barriers to being an integral part of their community. Barriers are denser for those living in low-to middle income countries. They might face physical barriers, like steps or an absence of accessible bathrooms. They might be excluded via communicational barriers like the lack of braille, hearing aids or easy to read print.
The most difficult barriers to overcome are negative attitudes towards people with disabilities and their capabilities. These attitudes are not found within expanded communities, who see people as Jesus saw them. A person with a disability is seen to have great worth and dignity. Expanded communities seek inclusion. They seek to understand barriers to people with disability fully engaging with them and how they can be removed.
As we journey through Lent, welcomed and included in Jesus’ love, may we seek to expand our love to welcome and make room for all people, including people with disabilities.
https://www.cbm.org.au/stories/communities-expanded-by-the-cross
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