Inside the Christmas Story
Christmas Story – told from different perspective
It was just a small town down the road from Jerusalem – this is how the Christmas story starts. Business was slow, not much happening, only one small roadside inn – just not much of a town. It probably was much like the small town I grew up in rural Nebraska. Then orders from Rome came for a census and all were required to return to their hometown to be counted.
Suddenly that little town became robust with activity. Travelers began to fill the business community with trade and there were not enough rooms for all who filled the town. People were camping in the parks and roadsides. Riding into this small town, Bethlehem (“the house of bread“) the home of King David, was a young couple, Joseph and Mary.
Mary was pregnant and due at any moment. Joseph was frantically trying to find a place for the couple to stay but there was no room. He begged the inn keeper explaining the condition of his wife, “can’t you at least find us a corner somewhere?” The inn keeper said, “No I’m sorry there is no room.” Thus the Christmas story unveiled.
Joseph staggered back to the donkey where Mary was, discouraged and thinking to himself, “if only they knew who this child is to be…” Suddenly he heard the innkeepers voice, “Wait… there might be a place, it is not much of a place but it might work for you.”
The innkeeper moving quickly realizing Mary could give birth at any moment showed Joseph a stable and directed him to a stall that had been cleaned with fresh hay and clean water. With tears in his eyes and a smile of relief Joseph said, “this will be fine.” Within only seconds Mary screamed, “Joseph it is time”. Suddenly the people all around that stable began to move Quickly, and within a matter of minutes they all heard the wonderful cry of a new baby boy. The world was about to change forever! Christ the Messiah, Immanuel, God with us, the prince of peace that had been foretold by the prophets was born.
Not far away in the countryside there were shepherds tending their flocks. They were huddled around a small campfire and their lives were about to change forever when an angel appeared to them.
Luke records what happened,
“Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)
Joy to the World – The Lord has Come
When the angel made that incredible announcement of “Good News” to those shepherds it brought “Joy to the World” for all who would believe – the savior of the world had been born – Jesus the Christ. It is still good news to all who will believe. Every person can experience joy in their life, every day of their life, when they believe!
I am praying for your Christmas and all the days of your life to be filled with joy. True joy can only be found in Christ. Make a fresh commitment to follow Him and make sure to keep Jesus the center of your focus.
JOY TO THE “YOU” THE LORD HAS COME
Have a very merry Christmas.