Susan LaffertyChristmas approaches. Like a freight train. It’s that time of year.
Loud in commercials and sales. Glitz and glitter. Richly-colored wrapping and ribbons and bows.
Bright trees. Exquisite nativities. Christmas baking on point.
And the music. Playlists mixing winter themes and manger scenes. O Holy Night and a blue Christmas without you.
In the midst of it all? Hunger for something more.
Learning hospitality. As we move across the world and enter new cultures.
Not just when I’m opening my home to others. But when they open theirs to me.
I see this in the Master’s instructions to His disciples. As they’re sent out two by two. Traveling to towns and villages. Sharing the good news of the Kingdom of God.
“When you enter any town, and they welcome you, eat the things set before you.” (Luke 10:8)
In the midst of a difficult season in Delhi, I remembered Ann Voskamp’s One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are. And started a gratefulness journal. I numbered big and small reasons to give thanks.