Advent Word - December 6 - #house - "Our house...in the middle of our street."

The "Advent Word" practice is a daily meditation on a given word and an opportunity to share that reflection on social media with others who are keeping this practice. It's akin to an Advent calendar, but with many boxes to open on a given day. Sometimes the reflections are sincere, and sometimes they're a little silly, but at the end of the day, it's a practice set aside to help us observe the season of Advent in the midst of the world's busyness. With all of that in mind, this is going to be my attempt to observe the Advent Word practice. I wish I could promise a reflection every day, and we'll see where this goes together.

One thing we see a lot of in the office is people calling for help with utility bills or finding housing or even a night shelter. We've only got so much to spread around, and it's always hard to tell someone "No" or piece together the story they're telling. It's overwhelming just to hear their stories, and I can't begin to imagine the very real struggles so many of them are going through. And lately, we've found out that many of the shelters in town are completely full. The men's shelters, the women's shelters, and the family shelters are full of waiting lists. It leaves those in need needing to constantly call to check with the agencies, and that adds an extra stressor to their already stressed lives. It's an ugly cycle.

So many of you, when you come through and see these downtrodden folks sitting in the office, are so kind and welcoming. Earlier this week, one of them wanted something to drink, and one of you went down and brought them a glass of water. Other times, we've had folks so tired and weary that they fall asleep on the couch, and you'll walk quietly through the office, giving them a chance for a brief rest. It may not seem like it, but in those moments, you're blessing them, giving them a moment of dignity in the midst of their struggles. You are taking ownership of your roles at the church, and you are welcoming strangers into your house, into your home.

Thanks for being that way. I know it's not always easy to know how to respond in those moments, but responding with kindness and hospitality is never the wrong way.