Blessing is a word that gets lost in our culture. To bless is to approve, affirm, to give favor and protection. In a world torn by hate and strife, violence and oppression we would all do better to be a conduit of blessing. Imagine a world where people blessed one another with kindness. How would community be transformed if the goal were to bless people with words, actions and provision?
Canterbury is both a giver and a receiver of “blessing”.
We open our doors wide to a hurting world and invite them in for a cup of coffee, to be still, to gain some peace in a troubled or
confusing moment. At the core of Canterbury is the ministry of hospitality. The root of that word is hospital, a place for healing and care. We function as refuge for the wounded, needful souls of this world. We offer a place of encouragement, insight and hope and people find this and more when they wander onto the Canterbury campus.
We also receive blessing at Canterbury. We rely on the kindness of others for support, encouragement and our success in the Canterbury Mission. As the Executive Director I am amazed when I see people take the initiative in doing something for Canterbury.
Maybe the best way to understand blessing is as a conduit. We receive and we give. Blessing flows through us to others. This is the ancient picture of how God blessed the patriarch Abraham; God blessed him to be a blessing to all nations.
Reflection: How have you been blessed in life? How have you and how can you bless others?
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