“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
December is here! It’s the most wonderful time of the year. But it’s also the busiest time of the year. From now through the New Year, family will visit, gifts will be bought and wrapped, goodies will be baked, parties will be scheduled, church functions will be had… and the list goes on.
Now don’t get me wrong, I am here for all of it! I make an entire evening of “gift wrapping” festive by turning on Christmas movies and sipping hot chocolate. If you need a friend to watch Hallmark Christmas movies with, I’m your girl! I love everything about this season.
But along with the hustle & bustle comes the risk of hurrying through to get things done. The risk of forgetting to slow down enough to truly celebrate Jesus. The risk of preparing all the food and gifts, but not preparing Him Room in our hearts.
But along with the hustle & bustle comes the risk of hurrying through to get things done. The risk of forgetting to slow down enough to truly celebrate Jesus. The risk of preparing all the food and gifts, but not preparing Him Room in our hearts.
As much as I wish it weren’t true, I am guilty of this. I remember one year, as I looked back over the month of December, I realized that I hadn’t taken much time to focus on Jesus. Sure, I knew the reason for the season, I attended church, and probably even served in different ministry opportunities. But had I really taken the time to prepare room in my heart for Him? Did He have first place in my heart & life during that busy season? The year I realized that, I remember thinking, “I never want another December to pass where I’m not closer to Jesus at the end of the month than I was at the beginning.”
I never want another December to pass where I’m not closer to Jesus at the end of the month than I was at the beginning.
Scripture says, “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
Now I do realize the cultural differences of that time. But my first few thoughts are…no room? For a woman about to give birth? No room for a family traveling in the cold? No room for baby Jesus?
At first, it’s easy for me to be judgmental of the inn-keeper. But then I realize that I too am guilty of this. How often am I focused on my own plans all the while leaving little room for Him?
This December, as I prepare the gifts, the tree, and the decorations, I want to first and foremost prepare room in my heart for Him. What a sweet season to get alone with Him and know Him deeper. To readjust my focus to the One who deserves not just a part of my heart, but all of it.
This December, as I prepare the gifts, the tree, and the decorations, I want to first and foremost prepare room in my heart for Him.
Happy December, friends. I hope this month finds you joyful. Just remember, it’s not about perfection in our preparations, but precious time in His presence! Merry Christmas!
That She May Know 