Friday Inclusive Reflection: Readings for Third Sunday of Advent — A Reflection of Welcome #SundayIsComing
December 14, 2025: Third Sunday of Advent
Queer Theology — A contemplative weekly reflection on the readings
Queer Reflection for this Sunday
A short liturgical and contemplative guide reading scripture through a Queer Theology lens.
If you want a quick orientation to queer spirituality, see our short primer here. Sit with these readings and invite the Spirit to surprise you.
This Week's Lectionary Readings
- Isaiah 35:1-10
This passage from Isaiah speaks of a time when God's people will experience healing and restoration, highlighting the inclusivity and belonging of all people in God's kingdom.
Contemplative Practice: Imagine yourself as part of a community where all identities are celebrated and embraced, feeling the joy and freedom that comes with true belonging.
✝︎ - Psalm 146:5-10
The psalmist praises God for caring for the oppressed, hungry, and imprisoned, emphasizing God's love and justice for all, including the marginalized.
Contemplative Practice: Reflect on a time when you felt marginalized or excluded, and allow God's love and justice to surround you, bringing comfort and empowerment.
✝︎ - Luke 1:46
Mary's song of praise celebrates God's work of lifting up the lowly and filling the hungry with good things, highlighting God's care for the marginalized and oppressed.
Contemplative Practice: Imagine yourself singing Mary's song, feeling God's presence lifting you up and filling you with hope and strength.
✝︎ - James 5:7-10
James encourages patience and endurance in the face of suffering, reminding us that God's justice is coming, offering hope and comfort to those facing discrimination or exclusion.
Contemplative Practice: Sit in silence, breathing deeply and trusting in God's promise of justice and restoration for all, finding peace and strength in the midst of challenges.
✝︎ - Matthew 11:2-11
In this passage, Jesus affirms John the Baptist's role in preparing the way for the kingdom of God, recognizing the importance of all voices and contributions in God's work of inclusion and transformation.
Contemplative Practice: Reflect on the ways you are preparing the way for God's kingdom of love and inclusion, feeling empowered and valued in your unique gifts and identity.
✝︎
Queer Theology Reflection
These readings affirm the sacred worth and belonging of all people, including LGBT+ individuals, in God's kingdom. They remind us of God's justice, love, and care for the marginalized, calling us to create welcoming and inclusive spaces in our congregations.
Sermon Preview (pastoral focus)
This Sunday, we will focus on the theme of inclusion and belonging in God's kingdom, exploring how we can embody God's love and justice for all. As a sacred practice, we will engage in a time of communal prayer for healing and reconciliation in our community.
About "Sunday is coming, Jeremy": A weekly reflection series by The Most Reverend Jeremy Greaves, Anglican Archbishop, offering short preparing reflections for Sunday. If you prefer watching, open the playlist above.
Archbishop Jeremy Greaves has publicly offered support to LGBT+ people; the Diocese has taken steps toward inclusion.
Join us this Friday for a time of reflection and prayer as we prepare our hearts for Sunday's service. This space is safe and confidential, offering a place of affirmation and support for all who attend.
A Prayer
God of surprising welcome, meet us at the margins and make their stories holy among us. Teach us to read with tenderness, to honour strange joys, and to hold wounds with reverence. Breathe your courage into our worship and our care. Amen.
We seek to practice welcome and dignity for all folk as part of our ministry. Read, reflect, and join us each Friday.
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