“And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7 KJV
As a child I would read this story and think to myself, "I would have made room for them!" I judged the Innkeeper. Did you?
As I grew older, the world took up more room in my life. My wants and desires did not include the Son of God. But every Christmas I'd celebrate Santa; baby Jesus resided in my crèche, but not in my heart. The tree and trimmings took prominence; the music heralding His birth filled the house and car but not my heart. No room.
I was tired; frazzled by the hurrying to be ready for the jolly old man. Threatening the kids with no gifts if they were not good; spending money I did not have; taking a day to put it together and a day to take it down. Proud of my efforts, and looking forward to December 27; done for another year.
Then when my life fell apart, I was told by a friend to examine my heart! He told me to make a list of all of the people who had hurt me and all who I had hurt. I had no idea the pain I had stashed in my heart; unforgiveness, bitterness, anger, and such. We met; I confessed my sins, repented and forgave. I made room in my heart for Jesus. Up until then there literally had been no room. Oh, many years ago, I had invited Him into my heart, but there was no room. So when my friend showed me in the Scriptures my lawlessness, I chose to repent and obey. I moved out the old man to make room for a new Owner. When I obeyed, the weight of the world left and I felt light! The heaviness that had weighted me down was gone, and the things of this life were less important. I then had all I needed. No more emptiness, amidst the clutter. The vacuum filled with peace, I had never known. His promise true. I joined with the angels praising God:
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV
All things new! A new creature in Christ; a new life to live serving Him! I read Mary's reply to the angel and know the honor and humility she felt!
“And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.”
Luke 1:38 KJV
Everyday: do with me LORD as You will!
I celebrate His birth everyday!
Christmas is not a "season"; it's not a "Day"; it's a way of life for those who are His.
Glorify Him today in repentance!
Obey Him, everyday!
Even so - MARANATHA!
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