How Not to Let Christmas Rob You of Christ (Trust me, you need this)

 

No room.

It was a problem the day Jesus was born, and it’s a problem, still.

The season we celebrate Jesus coming to live among us, is the season it’s hardest to squeeze him in. At least, sometimes it is for me.

When we read the Christmas story, it’s easy to shake our heads and wonder how anyone could turn away Mary and Joseph as they sought a place to bring Jesus into the world. But in the next heartbeat, we busy ourselves making room for shopping, and wrapping, and decorating, while we neglect to make space for Jesus in our world. We skip church. Forget to read our Bible. Pray on the run.

But, boy, our houses look great. And our kids have gifts. And our cards are in the mail.

So, I must pause long enough to ask myself the hard question: Have I neglected to make room for the one thing–the one person–who really counts?

If I’m not careful, Christmas can rob me of Christ.

[bctt tweet=”Don’t let the busyness of Christmas rob you of the blessing of Christ.” username=”donnajonesspeak”]

Please don’t get me  wrong: I love Christmas. I love the whole shebang: the lights, the gifts, the decorations, the traditions. I love the way our family celebrates. I love spending the night at Grammy and Grandaddy’s. I love taking forever to open gifts. I love eating entirely too much sugar.

I’m certain all that joy makes Jesus smile.

But I also know that nothing brings joy like remembering Jesus. Or talking to Jesus. Or thanking Jesus. Or worshipping Jesus.

Without Jesus my joy is incomplete.  Without Jesus, I am incomplete.

And so, this Christmas season I resolve to make room for Jesus in my own little corner of the world. I choose to welcome Him into my life. My schedule. My day. My heart.

I flat-out refuse to say “there is no room for Jesus here”.

Will you resolve to make space for Jesus in your busy life, too?

If so, take a moment,grab your Bible, and read Luke 2:1-21, slowly. Allow yourself to be transported back to the day God became flesh and dwelt among us.

Choose to make room for Jesus every day this week. Whisper this prayer; “Jesus, I’ll make room for you.” Let your heart rest, and let your soul rejoice with this simple truth: God is with you. 

Here are a few scripture suggestions to help you make room for Jesus:

• Luke 1:26-38
• Matthew 1:18-25
• Matthew 2
• Luke 2:22-40
• John 1:1-14

As you celebrate Christmas this week, choose to make room for Christ.

God with us.

God with you.

Merry Christmas!

“And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” Luke 2:17

PS. If you’re looking for a meaningful last minute Christmas gift idea, why not buy a copy of Seek or A Moment to Breathe? It could very well be the best gift you give this year.