During this season of Advent, I have said these words as we end our worship services- “..and may the Spirit lead us into possibilities of hospitality that we haven’t imagined, making room in The Inn for all.” I am reminded of these words every day as I read the news, look around the neighborhood or even follow the social media: the need seems to be growing because support is decreasing. I can not say resources aren’t there because I know that is not true- our world has enough resources for all of us who occupy this planet, but the resources are being concentrated in a way that they are becoming less accessible to those who really need them. And, I don’t really wish to get into a debate of what I mean, but what I am inviting us to is to remain open to the Spirit’s leading so we can remain open to possibilities of hospitality that are around us and those that we may not even imagine exist, and do all we can to make ROOM IN THE INN for all God’s people and their needs. Here are some ways we can still show our support and share our resources:
Donate new and used winter wear for Heartland Human Care Services. You can bring your donations to church, or order to be delivered directly from their Amazon list.
Buy toys, games or books for children ages 0-24 from Kids Above All wishlist at Target or Amazon.
Bring toys to share with the children of our Immigrant siblings,
Participate in a VIGIL for the HOLY INNOCENTS IN GAZA, organized by Mennonite Action Chicago, on Saturday, December 28th @ 4:00pm at the John Hancock Building on Michigan Avenue, to recognize that while we enjoy the festivities of the season, people in the land where Jesus was born are enduring a genocidal war and are being bombardment with US weapons killing more than 18,000 children within a span of 14 months.
We also acknowledge that not everyone needs our support and donations, because there are other reasons why for some this season is always a challenge or is particularly so this year; that hope, peace, joy, and love are distant feelings for many, that loss of any kind is heavier than any celebration of family feels unbearable, so we will hold our “Blue Christmas” service this Sunday, Dec 22nd at 7:00 pm to recognize that reality of many. If you feel the need, we hope you will join us and will share the information with anyone you know who might be struggling in this season and might benefit from this offering.
And finally beloveds, amidst all that life presents us with, let us not forget to walk boldly towards justice, support our community, and do all we can to leave a better and peaceful world for our children and the future generations.
