And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Luke 2:8-12
Where animals slept was a humble place, not known for luxuries or refinement. The hearts that dwelled here were happy for dry shelter and the company of like minded creatures. Contentment comes to mind when I picture the animals resting together for the night. So why would Jesus be born in an unremarkable town like Bethlehem, in an unremarkable dwelling for animals? Did God provide a Savior who would be accessible for the common ones and bring His point home, down to earth so to speak, so that even we could find him? An earthy stable, filled with the smell of hay and animals with steamy breath on a cold night. A place where all are welcomed to find a place to lay their heads. Definitely not a place restricted for the educated, the religious or the wealthy. Anyone could walk into a stable. All were welcomed. If the only place you had to dwell was a stable, you probably had a humble heart.
That’s it! A humble heart. One which is not too proud or crowded with achievements and importance that it cannot feel the pull of a baby’s cry in a manger. He came to dwell with us. He came to live with us. He came to abide in us.
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:14-21
Your life may be very full of busyness and lists, things to do and buy, places to see and be seen. But is there a place of humbleness and quiet in your life that Christ can inhabit? Or is it too crowded in the Inn of your heart?
It’s important that you know Him. Only Jesus Christ came to save. Only Christ can forgive. Only Christ can redeem and give you new life. Only Christ can unite you with the Father.
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
Acts 4:12
Get to know Him now, before He comes again. Make room for Him to dwell within.
Making room,
Laurie