Recently I have found myself having conversations with a number of people who are experiencing difficulties in buying a house. Moving house can be very stressful even when it goes smoothly, but when something goes wrong especially at the last stages of the process, it can become very difficult to manage.
For most people their home is precious and represents their character, values and taste. It is a place of safety and comfort. Many people enjoy inviting others to their home and the atmosphere of welcome can be palpable. The faith of the inhabitants may also be seen within the house itself. Many Christian families have a crucifix or religious picture in their home.
Jewish homes have a mezuzah scroll on the doorpost of the front door and on the doorposts of all the rooms inside the house apart from the bathroom. Each small parchment mezuzah scroll is inscribed by hand with two sacred Hebrew verses Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13-21. The scroll is placed in a container, which is often very beautifully made and decorated, and it is fastened to the righthand doorpost. Everyone who passes through the door touches it with their right hand and then kisses their hand.
All Christian Denominations have a place to meet which usually reflects their particular approach to worship and Christian life. We often refer to the places as our spiritual homes; we rejoice in their appearance and atmosphere. We welcome people to come in and to join us in our activities. Like the places where we live, we sometimes have situations with our meeting places which give us anxiety and concern.
In the New Testament we find many references to homes. Once Jesus had begun his ministry, he was dependent on the hospitality of people with whom he stayed. We do not hear many details, but he clearly found and enjoyed the welcome and comfort in the home of Mary and Martha in particular.
We are approaching the weeks of Lent and Easter and it is a season full of references to suffering, anxiety and loss, from Jesus’ time in the desert through his entry into Jerusalem, his arrest, trials and crucifixion until the glory of Easter Sunday. As the days go on, Jesus is seen increasingly as isolated and lonely. He has no place he can call home where his family can gather to give him support. His friends can no longer offer him hospitality.
Hospitality is at the core of the Christian faith. Every time we meet for Holy Communion we are receiving that hospitality. Everyone we invite into our home is receiving hospitality from us as Christians.
For those who are struggling with problems to do with their home in any way, let us remember them in our thoughts and prayers. May their difficulties be overcome and may they be blessed with a home full of comfort, peace and hospitality.
Blessings to you all.
Pip