Friday, December 12, 2008

Advent Reflection

Matthew 10: 40 Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.




We talk a lot in the church about hospitality. The Bible tells us that we should welcome strangers. Congregations are thinking intentionally about how they can be more open and inviting to all. As we scurry to put up our wreaths, find the perfect tree, string our lights inside and out, and think ahead to holiday entertaining help us to remember the true meaning of hospitality this Christmas season. It is important that each of us be an agent for the kind of welcoming love which Jesus made real in the life of the community he gathered around him. All of us are naturally drawn to groups that are friendly, genuine, warm, and accepting. God’s love lives within people and their interactions. A welcoming community, like this, can transform lives at Christmas time and always.



Loving God, as we joyfully anticipate and prepare for the arrival of your Son help us to open our hearts, to be more welcoming, and to reflect your love in all that we say and do. Amen.


Pamela Foye
Parish Visitor