Kid, you can find your home in Jesus.

You’ll find no one more committed to your wellbeing, no one more understanding of your intricacies or better equipped to help you become the best version of yourself. You’re safe with him. Not sheltered, mind you – like a singer on a new stage or an athlete on the practice field, you will not always be comfortable – but you will be safe.

LGBTQ Christian, you may have come to believe once that your sexuality or gender experience has already separated or will someday separate you from Jesus. This is categorically false. If we’ve already been told that “as far as the east is from the west, so far have I removed your sin from you,” – if even our active actions of rebellion have been so profoundly undone, then how much more must God be unfazed by your mere temptations or proclivities? He does care, of course. He wants you to be well, and therefore won’t ignore what’s keeping you down. But he simply will not abandon you just because you’re reckoning with something taboo. His love for you is unembarrassed.

Mom, Dad, you’re home here, too. Commendable and fruitful as your vigilant watchfulness has been, your responsibilities are not without limits. You will never cease to be a parent, but you may give God the burden for a time without neglecting your love. You’ll be called back into the game soon enough. For now, though, find some rest with him. He’s your child’s friend as well as yours. Your child has you, and you both have Jesus on your side. You’re not alone.

Teacher, Pastor, Friend, your faith and love have extended your family and will not return to you empty. Follow the lead of your brother and king, entrusting all things to our Father and taking the opportunities he gives us to share and receive grace. You have a unique role in the lives of your LGBTQ loved ones: you’re in a corner of their life where they may not be expecting a kind and reassuring boost. Be that unexpected grace, and help them break down the lie that they don’t belong here in the family of Christ.

Mom, Dad, your child’s life is not over, and neither is yours. Their future likely looks different now than it did in your mind’s eye when you held them as a baby, but be encouraged: God is much more creative than you. “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.” Your child has not ceased to be your child. Rather, you’ve come to know them better – closer to the full knowledge of them held and cherished by God. You may see thorns, but God sees hope and a future.

LGBTQ Christian, Jesus is the best kind of advocate and friend. He sees the uniqueness of your soul and understands it perfectly. You are wonderfully made, and fully known. And the one behind it all will not leave you to figure this all out on your own. You have his companionship and his Word, and so many of his other kids are ready to walk with you, too.