“When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed.” Luke 14:13-14
Jesus was radical in His inclusion. He didn’t wait for people to fit a certain mold before welcoming them—He invited them as they were. The command in Luke 14:13-14 isn’t just about physical needs; but, about social and spiritual inclusion as well.
In today’s world, many neurodivergent and disabled individuals still experience exclusion. Whether it’s a child with autism struggling in a church service or an adult with ADHD being overlooked at work, many spaces are built without them in mind. True inclusion isn’t about making room—it’s about rebuilding the table entirely.
I’ve experienced parents weeping because they have been asked to leave social settings because their child stim or vocalize too much. Others have had family members dismiss their child’s neurodivergence as bad behavior. The truth is, inclusion begins in the heart and is shown in our actions.
How can we create inclusive spaces?
- Listen – Ask neurodivergent individuals and their families what they need to feel included.
- Adjust – Make small changes in your home, church, or workplace (e.g., sensory-friendly areas, flexible policies).
- Advocate – Speak up when you see exclusion happening—whether in a classroom, meeting, or family gathering.
Inclusion is an action, not a concept. How can you make your space more welcoming today? Let’s build a world where everyone has a seat at the table.
Want guidance? Get my book Embracing Possibilities: Nurturing Children with Special Needs https://a.co/d/514fwOY.
