“People, look east. The time is near of the crowning of the year!”
As I reflect on this Advent hymn, it reminds me to “look east” and make ready for the coming of Christ. Growing up as a military child, Christmases were often away from family. My parents made sure Christmas was special by decorating the house and celebrating with our own traditions. One of the tasks that fell to me was setting the table, which I did whether or not we were expecting any guests. One year, as we prepared to eat our meal, a knock on the door came from an older gentleman who had become a family friend. He had little family, so my mother invited him to our Christmas meal. Even today this reminds me that we must make ourselves ready by preparing our physical table to welcome the stranger, as well as by opening our hearts to share Christian love.
As I reflect on Jesus’ life, I’m struck by his unwavering hospitality to welcome the stranger and to give them the best seat at the table. May we never forget that on that lowly Christmas day some two thousand years ago, Christ came down to save the world from sin. We must continue to “look east” and see the stranger and welcome them in Christian love.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for sending your Son, and let us never forget to welcome the stranger as we set the table for your arrival on Christmas.
Thomas Monroe