Love and Reconciliation

One theme of the Christmas Season is to invite love into places that require reconciliation, and open our hearts to the work required. During this past week Linwood House has been full of family, of love and laughter, and the confirmation of how much we need each other. It is also a safe place for family to gather and share and give to each other.

Reading this piece from Henri Nouwen today is a reminder that this is how we, as Christ followers, are called to love. This is the Truth of Jesus Light we are called to live in, offering it to ourselves, each other, and all around us. A good piece of Truth to hold close as we finish off 2006 and move into 2007.

"Being Safe Places for Others

When we are free from the need to judge or condemn, we can become safe places for people to meet in vulnerability and take down the walls that separate them. Being deeply rooted in the love of God, we cannot help but invite people to love one another. When people realise that we have no hidden agendas or unspoken intentions, that we are not trying to gain any profit for ourselves, and that our only desire is for peace and reconciliation, they may find the inner freedom and courage to leave their guns at the door and enter into conversation with their enemies.

Many this happens even without our planning. Our ministry of reconciliation most often takes place when we ourselves are least aware of it. Our simple, nonjudgmental presence does it."

Light, Redemption and Hope

  

Come to the Table

 
 
  

Christmas at Linwood House would not be the same without all the volunteers and the artists who come and help create this beauty. Our friends who have a flower shop, have been at work preparing the table centers for a banquet that takes place in a few hours.

In a few days neighbours and friends will arrive for the annual Christmas Open house. Some will bring their musical talents, others bring food creations, some bring their ability to connect, and others will come seeking something they cannot define. Jesus says "I am the world's Light...I provide plenty of light to live in."

Our friends from the Downtown Eastside will come in the middle of the month for their Christmas Journey. We will certainly celebrate at the banquet table, and in many other ways that speak of Light, Life, Grace and Hope.