ASLC Devotions-Monday

Hebrews 10:19-25

19Therefore, my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, 20by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain (that is, through his flesh), 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us approach with a true heart in
full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold fast to the
confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. 24And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good
deeds, 25not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Victoria Island, British Columbia was brimming with visitors during Seattle’s 1961 World’s Fair. So it shouldn’t have surprised us that motel “No Vacancy” signs greeted us everywhere. And then we noticed someone directing us up a winding drive to a grand Victorian museum. We bone-tired,
dirty travelers were to be its overnight guests.

My parents and I entered that splendid sanctuary timidly, knowing that these accommodations were way out of our league. But that night we slept on antique beds with fine linens. In the morning, before museum visitors arrived, we were served breakfast on silver platters, with antique silverware.
During that short stay, (not as costly as we feared), the gracious museum owner delighted us with stories, shared the best that she had with us, treating us as if we belonged.

Reading this passage, I’m reminded that Jesus is like that gracious host, embracing us with his love, inexhaustible bounty, and reassuring us that we, indeed, belong with him. What an incredibly joyful task we have as we share that comforting hospitality and love with others.

Jane Oppermann

For more on all of our ministries, visit http://www.allsaintspalatine.org Wednesday, September 24 will be our Seder Dinner. Email office@allsaintspalatine.org to reserve your spot. Join us for worship on Sunday at 8:30 and 11.  Easter morning (April 4) we will have a breakfast. To contribute cooking or service, be in touch with Sandi Bolinger or Lori Quinn (847-991-4513).