Friday Inclusive Reflection: Readings for Nativity of the Lord — A Reflection of Welcome #SundayIsComing
December 25, 2025: Nativity of the Lord
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 62:6-12
This passage from Isaiah celebrates the restoration of Jerusalem and God's promise to bring justice to all people, emphasizing a sense of belonging and inclusion for all who have been marginalized.
Contemplative Practice: Imagine yourself as one of the marginalized people in this passage, feeling the joy and relief of finally being recognized and welcomed by God.
✝︎ - Psalm 97
Psalm 97 speaks of God's reign and righteousness, bringing light and joy to the earth, highlighting the divine presence that welcomes and affirms all peoples.
Contemplative Practice: Reflect on the ways in which God's righteousness and light bring comfort and acceptance to you as a queer person, allowing yourself to feel the warmth of divine love.
✝︎ - Titus 3:4-7
In Titus, we are reminded of God's mercy and grace, which welcomes all, regardless of their past, into a new life of hope and belonging in the community of faith.
Contemplative Practice: As you read this passage, contemplate the ways in which God's mercy and grace have transformed your own life, offering you a sense of belonging and acceptance in the midst of any struggles you may face.
✝︎ - Luke 2:
The birth of Jesus in Luke's Gospel is a story of radical inclusion, as the shepherds, who were considered outcasts, are the first to hear the good news of Christ's birth, highlighting God's hospitality to the marginalized.
Contemplative Practice: Put yourself in the shoes of the shepherds, feeling the awe and wonder of being chosen to witness the birth of the Savior, and reflect on the ways in which God's love and acceptance extends to all, especially those who are often overlooked.
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Queer Theology Reflection
These readings resonate with the experience of LGBT+ individuals by emphasizing themes of welcome, belonging, and inclusion in God's kingdom. They offer a vision of a community that celebrates diversity and affirms the inherent worth of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Sermon Preview (pastoral focus)
This Sunday, we will focus on the radical hospitality and inclusion of God as seen in the readings. We will explore how we can embody this welcoming spirit in our congregation by practicing active listening and creating safe spaces for all to share their stories. As a concrete practice, we will invite the congregation to participate in a prayer walk around our church building, intentionally praying for each person who enters our doors.
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 community as we prepare for Sunday's service. This space is open to all, and confidentiality will be respected. Come as you are, and let's journey together in faith and love.
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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