Participation Trophy
Dear Sutton and Savannah,
One of the phrases I dislike is “That’s not good enough.” Granted, there are daily examples of when something doesn’t meet the standard or benchmark that has been established. But the only way we improve is to use and exercise our muscles and brain. There is no need for a “participation trophy.” Rather, I hope we all discover the reward that comes from welcoming all of who we are, and then letting ALL the parts of who we are participate in the life we lead. Maybe then we can let go of the phrase, “That’s not good enough.”
-Dad
Inside Out Lectionary Letters
Year A Proper 8 - (Texts, Art, Hymns)
Readings for Sunday, June 28, 2026
Genesis 22:1-14 / Psalm 13 / Romans 6:12-23 / Matthew 10:40-42
Summary of Matthew 10:40-42
These are the concluding instructions given to the disciples before they head out to share the good news in the neighboring communities. The passage speaks of the rewards of living in kind and healthy ways. Welcoming others is an act of divine grace. Treating others in ways that affirm who they are and the unique gifts they contribute creates a state of openness, creativity and growth. Simple acts of compassion can make a huge difference in the lives of others, and produces rewards far beyond the simple act. Kindness produces miracles even if we don’t see immediate results.
Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul
The principle of welcoming applies to the inner journey as well. Most of us readily welcome certain parts of ourselves while quietly resisting others. We celebrate the parts that help us succeed and hide the parts that make us uncomfortable. Yet the soul flourishes when all of its healthy energies are welcomed and allowed to contribute. The initiating energy within us brings movement, courage, and action (v. 40). The prophetic voice brings imagination, creativity, and transformation (v. 41a). The righteous or stabilizing voice offers order, structure, and wisdom (v. 41b). The compassionate responder nurtures relationships and notices the needs of others (v. 42). Each carries a gift. Each deserves a place at the table.
Welcoming these inner voices does not mean allowing them to dominate. It means honoring their contributions. When one voice attempts to control the entire system, imbalance follows. But when each is listened to, respected, and integrated into the larger whole, the soul becomes more resilient, creative, grounded, and compassionate. The reward is not merely personal success. The reward is wholeness.
The disciples are sent into the world to welcome others and to receive hospitality from others. In the same way, we are invited to cultivate a spirit of hospitality within ourselves. To welcome what is wise. To welcome what is creative. To welcome what is courageous. To welcome what is compassionate. And in doing so, we discover that grace is not only something we extend outwardly. It is also something we practice inwardly. The journey of discipleship becomes a journey of hospitality toward the many gifts that reside within the soul.