Jesus' Sweet, Welcoming Sheep

Last week I referenced the fact that the Holy Family did not find welcome at an inn.   Even as there was no room, we imagine one inn owner, noticing that Mary was heavy with child, offering them what hospitality he could.  From going through that extra effort during the very busy time of the census, a great generosity is offered and a serendipitous detail in Luke’s Christmas story comes about.   

As I often repeat in writing and preaching, this odd detail, that he was “laid in a manger” in the Christmas story points to Isaiah’s prophecy.  That Jesus was laid in a manger would have rung a bell in the mind and heart of a Jewish person, who, likely would have memorized much of Isaiah’s prophecy.  In other words, they would have recalled that in the first chapter of the Book of the Prophet Isaiah, verse 3 of the first words of the prophecy, Isaiah stated: “A ox knows its owner, and an ass, its master’s manger; but Israel does not know, my people has not understood.”

Are You a Sheep or a Goat
Even as Jesus was recognized by many, many did not and rejected him.   This rejection of Jesus is made even more apparent at the end of Matthew’s Gospel when Jesus speaks of the last judgment.  The saying is stark: some will be blessed and some accursed for how well they notice Jesus by seeing him in opportunities to accomplish corporal works of mercy, such as meeting a stranger and welcoming them. Now that we are reminded of the importance of welcoming the stranger, let's look at some perspectives that I hope might motivate all Crescent Parishioners to be more welcoming.

Being noticed/noticing is Everything
Being noticed is important, even for people who seem to be grouchy or who seem to want to be left alone.  Take Ebenezer Scrooge.  He notices not being noticed…and it hurts. How frustrating it was for him to be in Christmas present and future and not be noticed.  In fact, not being noticed was one of the keys that led to his joyful conversion, where he would forever notice others better.  

Therefore, Crescent Parishioners, before Mass, notice and be noticed by those familiar with you and rejoice in it!  Even more though, notice people you don’t notice…and ask Jesus to motivate you to connect and welcome them.  After all, you are not a goat.  You are a sheep!  What else will make our parishes’ welcome better?

Introducing People to Each Other.
Recently, I started a new practice.  As I get to know parishioners and as I say hello to them in their pew, I introduce them to someone seated near them, even if I have to ask the name of that person.  That is a double bonus because two people know a name and are on the way to knowing a new person!  It is most satisfying to remember a person’s name and connect with them each week.

Feeling the authority to welcome
Clearly, there are some at Mass who have been given the authority to welcome.   Their authority comes from Jesus who has in a sense “deputized” them to be welcomers.  These welcomers have badges on: staff members with lanyards, ushers and greeters with name badges. Welcome from higher profile welcomers is very important and a blessing.  However, Baptism is the first and most important “deputization”…and all of us have and must exercise the authority given us in Baptism to be prophets, priests and kings, and welcoming is key in all those roles.

Going the Extra Mile
 It wasn’t until I recently watched the fourth season of “The Chosen” that I had an appreciation for “going the extra mile.”  Jesus and the apostles, on their way to Jerusalem, were pressed into service by Roman soldiers to carry their packs and weapons.  The law allowed for this, but only for one mile.  Much to the apostles’ surprise, Jesus required that they go two miles, an extra one voluntarily.  This doesn’t sound so horrible except for the fact that they had to rid themselves of their own belongings along the road.  The risk of losing everything they had was apparent and doubly so when they went that extra mile.

Remember the magic question to reach out and connect with a stranger who might be a visitor because you don’t recognize them.  Ask them “How long have you been a member of the parish?”  If they are a parishioner, they’ll tell you how many years, and there is no shame for you.  Rather, you have met a fellow, faithful parishioner and everyone is the better.  
If they are a visitor and live in the area, please go that extra mile and get an usher referral card from an usher.  Fill the card out for them and drop it in the collection.  Staff will follow up…and be sure to look for them in the future.

Therefore, ultimately, I’m asking all parishioners to do more than they have to by reaching out in welcome.   This, probably more than any other factor, will make our parishes more Christlike, Jesus’ sweet sheep, who welcome the stranger.       
    
Sincerely and with Love in Christ,
Fr. Pat