The Stage

Luke 2 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was great with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn Son and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and laid Him in a manger for there was no room for them at the inn.

Going home for Christmas. A tradition started by the first family. For the first Christmas. Back to the region of his family's birth.

Every detail of Christ's life was planned ahead of time. All persons playing their roles. From Caesar Augustus to Judas. From Mary to Caiphas. From Peter to Pilate. All prophecy must be fulfilled. No coincidence. No incidentals. Every detail planned for. It was too important to leave anything to chance. One time to get it right. For we have a God who is in the details.

Going home for Christmas can be very stressful. Family dynamics. Travel expenses. Long lines. Long waits in traffic. Crying children. Cold weathers. Stressful.

So this year I plan to keep it simple. And I will remember Mary and be comforted. For I do not bear her burdens. She was young. Heavily pregnant. Traveling from Nazareth to Bethlehem was a long journey. Not only is she carrying a child but the burden of carrying the Christ child. And how many people believe that virgins conceive? A new husband. And no place to stay. Giving birth in a stable. Stressful.

So just a thought....If you are traveling home for Christmas...Remember Mary and her struggles and be comforted. Also know this. We have a God who is in the details. He sees you. He knows you. And your stresses. Everything that was planned so carefully on that first Christmas... it was all for you. And me. So that we could celebrate this Christmas and remember the struggle that it took to bring us here. And to get us home. For Christmas. For eternity. With our family. In heaven.

Will you make room for Him this Christmas? Will you remember what was done for your soul?