The Pastor’s Blog – WELCOME!
I love this photo of the little bird wondering if the sign applied to him! He would not be alone in this, for many people are feeling lonely and separated from family and friends. They wonder, “If I came to the door of my neighbour, would I be welcome?”
With the call to keep our distance we may feel we have to keep everyone at arm’s length (or six feet away). May I suggest to you that we should be open to those Jesus brings across our door, finding ways to encourage them or help them in ways that keep both you and the other person feeling safe. And if Jesus asks you to open the door to them, you should be willing to do so.
This time of year we remember the story of the Cobbler’s Christmas. This story tells of a cobbler who had a dream, and in it Jesus promised he would come visit the cobbler at Christmas. The cobbler is so excited, he prepares for Jesus’ arrival for days. Then as he waited for Jesus Christmas day, three guests came, all in need, and the cobbler gladly met their needs. But at the end of the day he was sad, because Jesus had not come to his house. That night Jesus spoke to the cobbler again in a dream and said he did come; three times. He was in each of the people who came with needs to his door, and each time the cobbler welcomed the strangers he had welcomed Jesus unawares.
We are reminded of Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:40, “Truly I say to you, Inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these my brothers, you have done it to me.”
Guests may come to your door in many ways. Don’t be afraid to make room for those who come with needs. You may not necessarily bring them into your home, but there are other ways to help. A card, a gift, a meal, a coat, a pair of socks, a smile, a ride, an email, a call… all are ways to open the door of your life to others, and in doing that, opening the door to Jesus.
And it could be the little bird you feed, or the lost cat you connect with its owner, may also bring you God’s blessing! What do you think?
– Pastor Gary