Dec. 18: Gather by Phoebe Simon
The word “gather” jumped out at me because it is the word that relates most strongly to me and my journey to Orange. I’ve recently lost both of my parents and am now a single mother of two. Going through all of this loss in a short period of time has made me incredibly grateful for my community of friends and the church, both of which saved me from deep mourning.
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus offers a beautiful image of gathering in his invitation to the weary and burdened: “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28). This invitation is not just for individuals; it’s a call to the collective, to all who are in need of restoration, to come together in community under the embrace of God’s grace. Christ’s words during Advent invite us to reflect on our need to gather, to create space for one another and for Christ in the midst of our tumultuous lives.
It’s in these moments of gathering that we experience the deeper sense of belonging that Christ offers us. Just as the family gathers at the table, the church gathers in worship, drawing near to God and to each other, united in the hope and joy that Christ’s birth brings.
Another passage that highlights this is from Hebrews 10:24-25: “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” This passage encourages us not to neglect the gathering of the church community. Gathering together is not just a ritual or a social event - it is an act of encouragement, a way to spur each other on in love, and a reminder that we are not alone on this journey.
This call to gather takes many forms. It’s more than just attending church on Sundays. It’s about making space for relationships that nurture our faith. It’s gathering together to serve others, to bring comfort to those who are hurting, to listen to someone who is loney, and to share in the joy of others’ blessings. It’s about creating community where we go - finding our places in God’s story.
As we prepare for Christmas, we are reminded that Christ himself gathered us to him through his life, death, and resurrection. The holiday season invites us to follow his example, making space in our hearts and lives to gather others in love. This Advent, as we await Chris’s coming, let us consider how we can gather not only in celebration, but also in service and love for one another. In doing so, we reflect the light of Christ and help build communities where all can experience the warmth of God’s embrace.
May we gather this season with open hearts, ready to welcome the Christ who gathers us all.
—Phoebe Simon