Welcoming the Stranger

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers,
for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.

                                                                                                Hebrews 13:2

 

It’s Showtime!

My dear friends in Christ,

This Sunday and Monday we will be entertaining angels. There will be old-timers and newcomers. There will be folks who come regularly—every Christmas and Easter—and know in their bones that Trinity is their church. There will be folks who come often and haven’t decided whether Trinity is their church. There will be people looking for a church and people being dragged to church. There will be children we love, children we have missed, and children we have never seen. Folks will arrive with wheelchairs, walkers, rollators, and strollers that clog up the aisles. Most people won’t know where the restrooms are, many will be confused by the liturgy, and someone is going to sit in your pew.

Rejoice! All of this is good news.

Remember that we are all called to the ministry of hospitality, warmth, and welcome. Whether or not you’ve signed up, you are a greeter this Christmas. As ministers of the Good News of Jesus Christ we must all put our best foot forward with each other. Don’t fuss about what people wear, say, or do. Instead, make a point of helping someone find the restroom, a seat, or their place in the bulletin. Sneak a Werther’s to a fidgety grandchild. Hold somebody’s crying baby. Pass someone a tissue. If you are staying home to watch a service on YouTube, invite someone to join you. Introduce yourself to everyone you encounter and thank them for being there. Marvel at how wonderful it is to be worshipping together. Welcome each other in the name of Jesus Christ.

In short, come to Trinity this Christmas ready both to worship God and be of loving service to others, that we all may all grow in faith.

wishing you a most blessed Christmas,