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Thoughts on Home

January 4, 2026

Jeremiah 31:7-14|Psalm 84|Ephesians 1:3-6,15-19a|Matt 2:13-15, 19-23 or Luke 2:41-52 or Matt 2:1-12

The sparrow has found her a house

And the swallow a nest where she may lay her young;*

By the side of your altars, O Lord of hosts,

My King and my God.

– Psalm 84 (2)

How do you define ‘home’? Is it the house you live in? Your street address and neighborhood? The family and friends that surround you? Or is your personal concept of ‘home’ something deeper and more existential? Do you find a sense of ‘home’ in quiet moments or through gatherings and conversation with friends and loved ones?

As Christians, we may understand our ultimate ‘home’ to be within God’s fold. For many of us, St. Luke’s is an integral part of this notion of home. Within the halls and spaces of our church, we experience God through our prayer, communion, music, and fellowship. In this regard, I know many individuals who share my sense of gratefulness for our church community and the experience of belonging it affords. I am also personally grateful for how St. Luke’s has become central to my daughter’s understanding of what ‘home’ is. As the youth in our country witness violence and division within our culture, creating a space for our children to experience the love and acceptance of God is a beautiful thing.

During this season of Advent, it is also vital that we remember to hold the doors of this ‘home’ open for others who are currently experiencing isolation. In a recent study, it was reported that over 65,000 Rhode Islanders will be alone on Christmas. While St. Luke’s ministries do much to close the gap of loneliness, may we each consider what we might do individually to help spread a bit more love into our communities? As the Lord shepherds his flock, we are pulled together and share a sense of belonging. When God is at home in our hearts, may we help others experience love and joy through such connections, whether it be through volunteering or simply sharing conversation and a smile. Our ‘home’ in Christ grows warmer when we invite such moments of sharing.

Whatever your address, I hope you have a wonderful Christmastide and a happy New Year!

Jennifer Cormier