Friday Inclusive Reflection: Readings for Fourth Sunday of Advent — A Reflection of Welcome #SundayIsComing
December 21, 2025: Fourth 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 7:10-16
This passage speaks of Immanuel, a sign of God's presence with us even in times of distress, offering hope and assurance of belonging to God's people.
Contemplative Practice: Imagine yourself as one of the marginalized in this story, feeling the warmth of God's comforting presence and assurance of belonging.
✝︎ - Psalm 80:1
The psalmist cries out to God for restoration and protection, emphasizing the theme of God's faithful care for the vulnerable and marginalized.
Contemplative Practice: Reflect on the times when you felt abandoned or marginalized, and invite God into those spaces, trusting in God's restoration and protection.
✝︎ - Romans 1:1-7
Paul's greeting to the Roman church highlights the inclusive nature of God's love and grace, affirming the diverse identities within the Christian community.
Contemplative Practice: Contemplate the ways in which your unique identity is welcomed and celebrated in God's diverse family, finding strength in your belonging.
✝︎ - Matthew 1:18-25
The story of Joseph's dream and acceptance of Jesus as his own child challenges traditional notions of family and emphasizes the importance of radical hospitality and inclusion.
Contemplative Practice: Put yourself in Joseph's shoes, experiencing the transformative power of love and acceptance, embracing the unexpected as a gift from God.
✝︎
Queer Theology Reflection
In a world that often marginalizes LGBT+ individuals, the Gospel reading challenges us to embrace radical hospitality and inclusion, recognizing the diverse identities and experiences within our community as gifts from God. As we welcome all into our midst, we embody the love and grace of Christ, creating a space of belonging and affirmation for all.
Sermon Preview (pastoral focus)
This Sunday, let us focus on the transformative power of radical hospitality and inclusion, inviting our congregation to embrace the diverse identities and experiences within our community as sacred gifts from God. As we prepare for worship, let us practice the sacred act of listening deeply to one another, honoring each person's unique story and presence.
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 reflective space where we can explore the themes of belonging and inclusion in Scripture, offering a safe and affirming environment for all to share and listen. Your presence is valued, and your story is welcome here.
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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