ULC Sermon for Sunday December 12, 2021: A Home For All (Third Sunday in Advent)

A Home For All Sermon for Sunday, December 12, 2021, the Third Sunday in Advent © 2021 Rev. Susan Schneider University Lutheran Church, Seattle Our 2021 Advent Series: Close to Home For Advent this year, ULC incorporated the liturgy called “Close to Home” from A Sanctified Art (SanctifiedArt.org). About this liturgy: “When something hits close to home, it affects us deeply. During the Advent and Christmas season, we journey through scriptures and rituals that are tender, heavy with emotion, and vulnerable. We carry the memories and truths of this season close to our hearts. Close to Home acknowledges the “already but not yet” tension of our faith: Emmanuel is with us, and yet, God’s promised day—our everlasting home—is not fully realized. It names our deep longing for God to come close to us. The Advent and Christmas scriptures are rich with home metaphors and imagery. John the Baptist prophesies about the One who is to come, but reminds us that we are still wandering far from God’s promised day; his message hits close to home, especially for those experiencing inequity and oppression. After receiving the angel’s news, Mary retreats to Elizabeth’s home, seeking refuge and safety. Christ is born in the midst of a journey home, in a crowded dwelling space amidst livestock and shepherds alike. The Magi travel far from home to pay homage to Christ, and, having been warned in a dream, they avoid Herod by traveling home another way. In these scriptures, home is both physical and metaphorical, something we seek and something we are called to build. Ultimately, God is our home and resting place. God draws near and makes a home on earth—sacred ground is all around us. Close to Home also names the pain many of us will carry into this season. The holidays can poke at our grief. Many will be missing loved ones lost to sickness and tragedy. The traumas of the pandemic will still be with us. Many will have lost homes—due to natural disasters, economic hardship, and unjust policies. Many do not feel safe in their own homes due to poor living conditions or harmful family dynamics. Many feel alone and isolated at home. Churches are discerning transitions with their physical buildings; many of our spiritual homes are changing. This Advent, may we be comforted by the One who dwells intimately with us. May we expand safety and sanctuary for everyone wandering far from home. May we come home— wherever home is found—to live fully with joy, hope, and courage.” A Sanctified Art University Lutheran is a metropolitan congregation, committed to being a vital ministry in the University District and the world. As a Reconciling in Christ congregation, we affirm the dignity and worth of people of all races, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identity, social status, age, physical capability and economic condition. As a Greening Community, we strive to be faithful stewards of God’s creation. As an Advocating Congregation we make our voices known to our government authorities on behalf of those who are crying out for justice and peace. Thank you for continuing to support ULC. Your pledge or free-will offering is needed and gratefully appreciated during this time to keep ULC and its missions adequately funded. Please use Tithe.ly to make your donation online, or send your gift to the church office: University Lutheran Church 1604 NE 50th Street Seattle, WA 98105 We Choose Love. All Are Welcome.