In the article, “Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors: Including Children with Special Needs In Ministry,” Dr. M. Alyssa Barnes addresses how being receptive to different types of people can push a community to it’s full potential. Listening and implementing the Word of God emphasizes the universal Christian calling given to every person.
Throughout the article, Barnes explains the benefits of inclusion, use of opportunities, and overcoming barriers can expand a community.

Inclusion(Everyone equal & included):

It very common to judge the worst about people’s looks and actions, but all people struggle with the same issues.

Jesus says in Matthew 19:14, “Let the children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven” (ESV). All are children accepted/adopted by Christ no matter people’s faults, weaknesses, or uniqueness. He takes away the “disabilities”and gives people joy & a new life. Calling mankind to be free in God & serve others in love (Gal. 5:13-14, NIV).

In “The Gammage Cup” when the Minipins(people) find a common enemy/goal (Mushrooms) their differences don’t hinder them from being united as a team.

Opportunities/Benefits:

Since everyone qualifies to having life with Christ, one of the benefits we are given is godly friendships.

The results of a research study with autistic teens and adults shows that, “46% of individuals reported having no friends of similar ages” (Barnes 87).
By getting rid of fear and anxiety through faith, people are more comfortable to understand others in the fruits of the spirit.

Muggles the main character in “The Gammage Cup” is kind and reaches to the outcasts of her town “Slipper on the Water” eventually helping them be accepted again.

Overcoming barriers:

Every person has obstacles that keep them from making that next step of faith. It could even just a “one-step” barrier which requires acknowledgement to be fixed (Barnes 88).

Psalm 77: 1-2 says God listens, “[...] when I was in distress, I sought the Lord” (NIV). He helps us train and grow in faith and perseverance.

Similarly, Muggles from “The Gammage Cup” overcomes that “one-step” when her individuality and differences are challenged. The encouragement from the outcasts help her choice to leave home and follow them.

Conclusion:
Thankful everyone has the choice and privilege to grow community positively as shown in “The Gammage Cup.” There is much evidence showing the ways to take advantage of our opportunities and how overcoming obstacles brings unity & love.
Teamwork uses personal differences as a strength and tool to build a society of people who lean on each other.
By doing so, people newly thrive in all areas of life.