Sanctuary Foundation Advent Devotional Day 23
It is hard to go to a shopping centre at Christmas without someone asking for money. Perhaps we give because we feel bad about the excessive consumerism we are participating in and need to offset it with some token of kindness to others. Or perhaps deep down we know that there is more to Christmas than what we can give and receive within the family.
The best person to explain why Jesus came into the world at Christmas is Jesus himself. He does so by quoting a prophecy from Isaiah:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.”
Jesus came to earth at Christmas to help the poor and oppressed, to offer hope and grace to all who would accept it, particularly the vulnerable and needy, and to open doors for those who are locked in.
Our relationship with poverty cannot be restricted to a few conscience-easing coins in a charity collection plate. Christmas reminds us to live it out as Jesus did.
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