While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. (Luke 2:6-7)
Room is a very important thing in the life of the Spirit. As a matter of fact, new birth seems to require it. Unfortunately, and ironically, during this season—just as in the time of Mary and Joseph—it is so easy for life just to fill up. And when life is over-filled there is simply no room for something new (of the Spirit) to be born in us; the pace and demands of the season are at odds with the room and reflection necessary to pay attention to how, where, and when God might be entering our lives/world.
Maybe that’s why the words of the old Christmas carol remind us, “let every heart, prepare him room.” It seems that the writers of those wonderful songs of old knew well the secret that unless we work diligently to make room for him, it will not simply happen on its own—it will not just “fall on our heads.” Making room takes effort and intention and prayer and planning. And unless we are willing and able to put forth the energy and effort to pay attention, it is likely that when he does eventually come, we will miss him too.
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