Gathering Around the Table
Undoubtedly, there are unmistakable sights and sounds that remind us of the preparations for Christmas. However, it is also undeniable that there are ways that we gather around the table with family and friends to experience the connections of the community that reveal the love, joy, hope and peace of the Advent season. As Matt Rawle emphasizes in the third chapter of “Experiencing Christmas: Christ in the Sights and Sounds of Advent,” there are several scriptures that direct us to consider the connection to God around the table and the meals that are received. He opens the chapter with a quotation from Psalm 34 “Taste and see how good the law is! The one who takes refuge in him is truly happy” (v. 8).
As certain as the connections between the lights, trees, banners and other decorations are to Christmas, there are connections between the music, theatrical productions and familiar scriptures to the birth of Christ during this time of the year. As families look forward to traveling to gather around the table to enjoy delicious meals and congregations gather to share festivities that teach the details of Christ’s birth, we better understand the meanings of the symbols that adorn our homes and sanctuaries. The colorful lights of Christmas trees remind us of the colors of the covenant of the rainbow. The clear lights of candles and trees remind us of the light shines into the darkness. The lyrics remind us of the words of the angels which give us courage and clarity. The shared meals remind us of our connection to one another and our opportunity to serve humanity.
Rawle notes that “breaking bread is more than just eating. It is communion with each other” (pg 88). He further notes that “food is a vehicle through which we connect with our history, our friends and even our enemies.” As we welcome both friends and strangers, especially during this time of the year, we are encouraged to recall the hospitality that was denied, and the hospitality that was extended, to Joseph and Mary. Unfortunately, even as more and more people became aware of the true identity of Mary’s baby, the hostilities did not end. While the beautiful communion between Mary and Jesus are recalled in the galaktotrophousa, we also remember the glykophilousa, in which baby Jesus caresses Mary’s cheek in loving security and fulfillment, while Mary’s expression contemplates the many difficulties that Jesus will face throughout His life.
The anticipation of delicious food and treasured gatherings of old friends and new acquaintances are heralded through the songs of joy that we sing and the enthusiastic invitations that we extend. Let us continue our sharing of love and joy over the coming weeks. We are looking forward to being together Saturday evening at 5:30pm for the piano concert and for the choir concert on December 21 at 8:30am. May the hope and peace of this season be manifest in every act of worship and service.
In Christ,
Jon McCoy
