Month: December 2017

Drawing Close to Bethlehem

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And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. Luke 2:4-6 KJV

We cannot know from this passage if it was on the night of their arrival that Mary gave birth, but we can imagine her weariness as they plodded through the outskirts of Bethlehem. How much longer would it be till the child’s birth? Where would they stay? Who might welcome them? Who would believe the miraculous story they carried in their hearts?

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This Christmas God is also bringing you and me on a journey. His goal is for us to go where He has prepared for us to be. Like Mary you might have times when you might be wondering: Where do I really belong? But God who has prepared a place for every sparrow’s nest has also planned a place for you. When we wish to be welcomed, He reminds us in those moments that we are always welcome to come to Him. Just as Joseph and Mary could only trust God’s timing on the long road to Judea so also we must be patient as the seconds tick down on the changes that lie ahead for us. You might think that no one can know the story of your heart, but God will send angels stars or shepherds to help you as you draw closer to Bethlehem.

A 21st century Christmas

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And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7

21 centuries have come and gone since what began as a dark lonely night in Bethlehem. Jesus was not expected that night. Joseph and Mary had planned and hoped for a quiet and safe place but Jesus came to the stable. Mary remembered the messages of Gabriel and her cousin Elizabeth of His greatness but no one even took time to turn their head to notice. The Son of God came into the world on a night when all that was expected was for Joseph to pay his taxes. Though the date is still unknown we set aside December 25 to mark His birth. We can be like shepherds coming in from our fields to tell the wonderful news of God’s salvation. We can be like wise men bringing our gifts and worship because our King is here! We can be Joseph and Mary, ready to leave at moments notice to bring Jesus anywhere God leads us. Yes this world is dark and only the humble have a place for Him and still He comes. Yes powerful forces more evil than Herod wish to eradicate Him from the earth yet He rules a kingdom that can never be overthrown. Yes there are some who will not so much as turn their heads to give notice to His presence but He still accepts frightened shepherds, weary travelers and curious children. He still waits with the good news of great joy for all who believe in Him!

Our Christmas Prayer

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For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

This year what will our Christmas prayer be? Neither Mary nor Joseph had prayed for a son, and yet God’s Son was given them. The Wise men weren’t praying for a sign and yet a star was sent to bring them to the Wonderful Counselor.  Bethlehem’s shepherds were not asking for angel’s visits when they were startled from their sleep by the heavenly hosts glorifying God. The keeper of the inn had not asked for any honored guest and yet the Everlasting Father sent him the Prince of Peace to be born in his stable.

If God gave so much in this way, imagine what He might give us when we ask. Why not pray for Jesus to be seen by our neighbors through our lives this year? Why couldn’t Jesus bring healing to our racial and ethnic divide if we ask? How many more could fill our churches on Christmas morning if we would be willing to knock on their doors and invite them to our homes? Why couldn’t Jesus come again to forgotten people all around us and show His love and mercy. Will we ask to be a simple manger for Him in which He can lay His head?

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Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: Matthew 7:7