Ladies, we are approaching the holidays, and, as we know, that is our time to shine!

We will begin to see articles, TV spots, podcasts – aimed at helping us cope. As I think of this influx of advice, there is something in me that asks, “What’s wrong with this picture?” And I find myself reacting negatively to the word and the concept of cope. I want to substitute the word and concept of enjoy. As I begin to plot and plan how I am going to enjoy the upcoming holidays, I find myself focusing on the ancient, sacred, biblical mandate for hospitality. The Hebrew laws regarding the extension of hospitality come from it being a necessity for survival. As there were no 7/11s or Holiday Inns available to Hebrew travelers in the ancient near east, they had to rely on the hospitality of their kinfolk. New, and central to God’s crafting of His people, was the extension of this hospitality to the stranger, sometimes called “sojourner” in the Hebrew tradition.

I think, in the planning of large and extravagant get-togethers, we sometimes lose sight of the fact that true hospitality can happen in the smallest of moments, with the most limited of resources. The sharing of a cup of tea and, dare I say – piece of fruitcake – with a friend, with time for some heartfelt conversation and sharing is hospitality of this sacred nature. It is the connection that matters. And true connection, I have to remind myself, takes the willingness to give it time, and undiluted attention.

Our parish is offering the opportunity to spend some set-aside time in the reflective Advent Quiet Day, December 7th, 10:00-12:00, in the parish hall at church. This will be an opportunity for you to bring Christmas cards you wish to write and get ready for mailing. The morning will be one of quiet, with soft background music and a few meditations shared over the course of the morning. At noon, we will reconfigure the room to share a pot-luck lunch and enjoy the hospitality of the company of each other.

My wish for all of us is that we find – make – time for the sacred, hospitable embrace of each other as we journey through this holiday season.

Bev+