Sanctuary Foundation Advent Devotional Day 19
I have only ever been summoned to court twice. The first time was for an unpaid council tax bill that had been sent in error. The second was for the adoption of our fourth child. The judge’s decision meant that the 2-year-old girl in my arms took on my surname, became a sister to my birth children and a daughter to me and my wife forever. He reassured us that there was no way that his decree could be undone.
Christmas is a time when we celebrate as families. But Christmas also challenges our concept of family. Jesus leaves his home in heaven to move in with a human family. Joseph considered himself the father of Jesus despite no biological connection. Mary welcomed shepherds into the intimacy of her birthing suite – a privilege usually only reserved for family.
In his letter to the Galatians, Paul explains that Jesus came not only to liberate us, but also to adopt us, spelling it out in historical, legal and practical terms.
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption.”
This is the ultimate act of hospitality. God saw how broken and vulnerable we were and sent his Son to rescue us and adopt us.
Thank you
Krish Kandiah
Director, Sanctuary Foundation
Thank you for joining us on this Season of Sanctuary Advent Journey looking at the themes of welcome and hospitality that lie at the heart of the Christmas story. As you prepare your hearts and homes for Christmas, please consider opening doors of hope for those around you. For more inspiration and information please visit www.sanctuaryfoundation.org.uk