Doorway Two: Sanctuary, Day 1

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge. (Psalm 91:4, NIV)

In this second week of our Advent Retreat we open the doorway of Sanctuary. The dictionary defines a "sanctuary" as "the holiest of holy places — a temple or church. It's also a word for anywhere a person feels especially safe and serene. People might call their homes their sanctuary, or a beautiful spot in a quiet woods can be described as a sanctuary. It can also be a way to refer to shelter or asylum from political danger."

A sanctuary space could also be a favorite scripture passage or other sacred writing. It may be found as you listen to certain music or read a particular book. You might find sanctuary in being with another person or held in the community of a church or close friends. Our ultimate sanctuary is found in God.

In her book, "Return to the Root," Joyce Rupp shares the following story:

"A wise and loving father sat down with each of his almost-teenaged sons and used the word "sanctuary" to assure them that they would always be welcomed by him, no matter what they had done. He spoke of future mistakes and actions his sons might regret and their fear of the consequences. He went on to assure them, 'When that happens, please.... Come to me and say only 'sanctuary' and I will know. You can sit there in the silence and I will keep you sheltered by a love that will never let you go, no matter what you did. We will get through it together. I want you to know this now and to count on it when you feel despondent, like a failure, and want to run away. I will be your sanctuary -- till you can carry on.'"

The following song by Carrie Newcomer beautifully speaks of such a sheltering space.

The season of Advent offers many examples of sanctuary: Mary's womb is a sanctuary for the growing baby Jesus; Joseph is a sanctuary person for Mary when he does not abandon her; Elizabeth offers a safe and affirming space to Mary following Mary's encounter with the angel; the stable and manger provide a warm and protected place for the birth of Jesus; and afterwards, Mary and Joseph flee into Egypt with their baby boy to seek sanctuary from Herod.

Advent invites each of us to find our own sanctuary space. Now, while frantic holiday busyness swirls all around, we most need the peace and inner spaciousness of sanctuary. Finding moments of sanctuary can help ground us in the true meaning of what is at the root of all our preparations: the Light of Christ coming into the world!

Last month one of my sisters died unexpectedly. As I move through this bustling season, my grieving heart (and body) can often feel frayed; I long for a place of quiet and peace. In these times, I try to listen for what I need most, and I often wrap up in a warm throw, make a cup of tea, light a candle, and listen to some favorite music or read something that brings comfort. This spiritual practice has become a priority for me.

Not just people need sanctuary. Many animals also need help to live in safe and protected spaces. There are many different types of animal sanctuaries throughout the world. Below is a very brief video, featured on CBS Sunday Morning in June 2021, of South Dakota's Wild Horse Sanctuary -- 11,000 acres where these wild and beautiful creatures can run free. As you watch this video, notice what draws your attention.

Questions for reflection:

1) How do you understand sanctuary? What images arise for you when you hear the word? What are some of your emotions/feelings as you read and think about sanctuary?

2) Where do you find sanctuary? Where do you feel held, safe, and protected?

How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. (Psalm 36:7-9, NIV)

Resources:

Joyce Rupp, Return to the Root, p. 209.