“If
Jesus came to my house and knocked upon the door, I’m sure I’d be more happy
than I’ve ever been before”. These are the opening words to my wife’s treasured
children’s book entitled, “If Jesus Came to My House” by Joan Gale Thomas (today's colored image imitates Thomas' illustration from the 1951 publication of her book). King
Jesus condescended when He placed himself in the care of two simple folk; Mary
and Joseph. Though a King, He was not raised in a palace by royalty. God humbled
Himself when He came in person to our world. Just think if Joseph had declined when
asked to take Mary as his wife. In that culture she risked being stoned for
being pregnant out of wedlock. With some heavenly coaching, Joseph opened the
door and welcomed her into his home. This Christmas, we all have the
opportunity to again welcome our Lord and King into our home.
The
Jews had great expectations for their coming Messiah. He was to be their ruling
King who would set things straight again and restore the Kingdom. But God would
confound their wisdom. The Messiah came and was born in a very ordinary setting
to a poor family. He was not trained up to be a famous military leader. God
showed us that very often He is most present when He is most hidden! We often
go looking for the credentials of worldly greatness and He shows us the path to
greatness is a descending one. In His Kingdom we must descend to greatness.
Jesus
has come and He will come again but this Christmas our personal challenge is to
welcome Him into our hearts. Every Christmas is an invitation for us to say
“yes” to Christ and to renew our love for Him. Will you not tell Him He is most
welcome in your home and your heart? Embrace the Savior of the world, thank Him
for the holy family that accepted the greatest invitation to express
hospitality. Notice that so very often it is in the simple things and simple
acts of life that He is so very present – His great love embracing us even in
the unseen places of daily life.
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