Katie's Portal
Dear God, we celebrate your gift of our Savior Jesus. But we get so busy planning the party that sometimes we need to be reminded who the real guest of honor is. Help us to keep our minds and eyes on you and your promises. Help us to share this real meaning of Christmas with all those around us. Amen
Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. Exodus 20:8.
One of the many sites on our recent Reformation Pilgrimmage was Katharine Luther’s portal. This door leading into Luther House, dates to 1540 and has a seat on either side. The story our guide shared with us was that, because Martin was so busy and there were so many people coming, going and staying in their home, Katie had these seats built so that she and Martin could sit and talk. This reminds me of the “time out” many parents give their children as discipline; a time to calm down and think about what they’ve done that is unacceptable; a time to refocus. As Christians living in this busy and chaotic world, we too need time out. Time out to think. Time out to share the day with loved ones. Time out to pray. Time out to listen for God’s voice.
Whether or not this is the real purpose of these seats at Luther House, the image is an important reminder that we too need an occasional time out. As you prepare for this wonderful time of Christmas with all its busyness, while you are helping others to prepare for the birthday celebration of our Lord, remember to find your own “Katie’s seat” – a place for your own timeout!