“… I was a stranger and you welcomed me. … Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” —Matthew 25:35, 40 (NRSV)
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Several years ago I was searching for a church that I could call home. I remember one Sunday that Wanda Nelson and Bill Adams were ushers and greeted me outside the front doors of St. John’s. They introduced themselves in their warm and gracious manner and then said “I don’t think I know you. I’m so glad you came. Tell me your name.” After I introduced myself, they said “Harriet, I think you’ll like St. John’s. Please come back.” I did, and I have.
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Not long after that, I was visiting my husband at Landmark Nursing Home where he was working very hard to regain mobility after a severe stroke. We were in the visiting room when I heard familiar voices in the hallway. It was Wanda and Bill. They were there to visit a member of St. John’s but graciously came in to meet Larry. What a breath of fresh air they brought. What fun and laughter they brought to us with Bill and Larry telling stories about growing up in rural Mississippi. Wanda and Bill’s generosity of time, spirit and Christ-like behavior brought relief from fear and sadness and a sense of God’s love and presence.
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This Advent season offers us opportunities to experience the peace and joy of knowing that God always welcomes us. As life takes its twists and turns, God is our rock and salvation. Isn’t it wonderful that He gives us unexpected encounters that can change our lives? If it had been up to us, do you really think we would have planned for the Messiah’s birth to be in a stable? Over and over He teaches us not to judge others and to welcome everyone. Even in our final days, we can feel the joy and peace of knowing that we are passing into God’s welcoming arms. I have a feeling that God has already put Bill to work welcoming newcomers to His Heavenly Kingdom!
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Gracious God, thank you for your many blessings. Help us to always be warm and welcoming to all as you are warm and welcoming to us.
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*Written with permission of Wanda Nelson on October 29, 2017, the day after the Celebration of Life for Bill Adams.
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Harriet Walters
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