Sanctuary Foundation Advent Devotional Day 8
I remember my Nan’s face when I told her I was having a baby. I had been so excited to tell her, so full of excitement, but her look said everything I didn’t want to hear. I was too young. I had ruined my life. I had brought shame on the family. I wouldn’t be able to cope.
I expect Mary heard those messages loud and clear from her relatives too. But one cousin leapt to her rescue and offered her sanctuary from the judgment and criticism and gossip.
Elizabeth didn’t just offer Mary respite in her home, she offset all the negativity with a burst of happiness for all to hear. But as soon as she began to bless her guest, she realised that she was the one who was honoured.
“In a loud voice she exclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favoured, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?”
I don’t think Elizabeth knew she was letting Jesus himself into her home when she invited in a poor, embarrassed, unwed, pregnant teenager, an outcast in her own family. But her reaction when she found out has been echoed throughout history as people continue to discover that hospitality brings them closer to God than they ever imagined.
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