“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).
Faith Related Observances
One of the most captivating seasons is here! The month of December brings us some key faith-related observances: Advent is observed from December 3 to December 24, a time when Christians all over the world prepare their hearts for the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas Day. Hanukkah is observed on December 7 through December 15 as a Jewish festival of lights. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is observed on December 8 as the day set aside to celebrate the supernatural conception of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. Then, is Asara B’Tevet which is observed on December 22 as a fasting day in Judaism.
These faith- related observances provide us the opportunity to reflect on and deepen our faith in God. In addition to these faith observances, the month is typically filled with festive activities to celebrate the captivation of the season, from school parties to carols and Christmas plays. It is one time in the year that parents wear more hats than any other time in the year combined.
Intentionality
Having raised three adult daughters, my husband and I know first-hand how this time of the year requires intentionality in everything. It is so easy to major in the minor during this season. This time of year can be seen in the story of the nativity. Joseph and Mary have been traveling for a while and were looking forward to resting in an inn. However, when they got to Bethlehem, there was no place or room for them to stay. It would not have been a big deal if Mary was not heavily pregnant. But it was a big deal- Mary was about to give birth at any moment. A kind inn owner provided Joseph and Mary with his stable; that was all he had.
Unknown to that inn owner, his provision and kindness made room for the King of Kings and Savior of the world to be born in his stable. He would go down in history as making room for Jesus Christ, our Redeemer! Since Christmas is the birthday of our Savior, let’s look for ways to make room for Him this special season so He can be born afresh in our hearts and lives.
Making Room Daily
As of the draft of this post, I had a chance to talk with a mother of nine children,- ages 23, 20, 19, 16, 14, 12, 9, 7 and 3. She and her husband have seven of their nine children at home with them. In fact, she gave birth to their last child (this is their miracle baby) at home during the pandemic. This amazing woman of God makes room for Jesus Christ daily by serving her family and ensuring they know how blessed they are. She ensures her children know the value of gratitude. Imagine if our next generation knew the value of gratitude and not entitlement. How would our world be so different, even during this season?
Better By Accountability
Last week, I talked with a business owner who looks for ways to make room for Jesus Christ. As a Christian minister and business owner, she holds weekly calls with her team, and they ask themselves how they can be better leaders for each other and their team. She ensures her team holds each other accountable by applying one thing each week to their personal or professional lives. Imagine how our professional world would be if this were the standard procedure. This minister is making room for Jesus Christ in her network.
Everyone Can Make Room
These three different examples let us know that no matter who we are or where we are, we all have opportunities to make room for Jesus Christ during this most wonderful season of the year. Whether an inn owner, mother of nine or marketplace minister, we can make our world a better place through our impact on one person or many people.
Wishing you and your families a wonderful season of joy, peace, and love. Let’s remember that Jesus is indeed the reason for this magical season. Let’s major on the major this season. Let’s celebrate by making room for Jesus to be born afresh in our hearts and lives during this season. Merry Christmas!
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