Do you find yourself in a place not intended or desired this Christmas? If yes, then please read this note:
When we consider the birth of Jesus, we tend to focus upon the majestic event with awe and wonder, yet rarely do we contemplate the undignified details of potential disappointment and despair. And, when we anticipate Christmas, we tend to emphasize the traditions, the generosity, the abundance, and the blessings.
Yet, some years, people experience an unexpected surgery, cancelled plans, extreme sickness, strained relationships, or an awful tragedy. Those moments crush all expectations of the season.
Is it possible to find consolation in these moments? Perhaps.
Consider the circumstances of the birth of Jesus from Joseph's perspective. Joseph probably did not enjoy providing less than civilized and comfortable surroundings for Mary and Jesus. He may have felt frustrated, concerned, doubtful, and inadequate in not being able to provide the absolute best for the mother of the Messiah, as well as the most amazing newborn to ever be born.
Scripture does not provide details of how Joseph handled the situation. Did he argue with the innkeeper? Did he fret about Mary's well-being? Did he pray for God to help him? We do not know. But, we do know that Joseph lovingly did his best under less-than-ideal circumstances.
May Joseph, the man who agreed to wed Mary and to care for her and her son, support all caregivers, allowing them to have hope in Jesus within dire circumstances!
Now, consider the scene from Mary's perspective. Mary probably did not want to give birth in a stable; I doubt she had anticipated such a unique birthing plan. She may have felt a range of emotions by the prospect of labor and delivery in an environment intended for animals, not the Messiah!
Again, Scripture does not provide details as to how Mary handled the situation. Did she cry when the innkeeper did not have any rooms available? Did she fret about her first pregnancy? Was she lonely in a crowded village? Did she pray for God to help her? We do not know. But, we do know that Mary, a young woman, endured the situation, keeping her eyes (literally) on Jesus.
May those who are incapacitated feel a special closeness with Mary this Christmas, as none of them expected or wanted to be in the places they found themselves such as a hospital, alone at home, in a facility, or any other isolated situation.
Finally, consider the birthing room of Jesus, not the nostalgic images of a candle-lit stable, but the filth of an animal stall. Even if someone had recently mucked the stall, I wonder whether bugs crawled, rodents skittered, animals brayed, and aromas lingered. This real-life scenario starkly contrasts with the beautiful Nativity figurines on fireplace mantles.
Again, we do not have details as to how Joseph and Mary arranged the stall to serve as a labor and delivery room, as well as their lodging for a period of time. Did Joseph create a make-shift bed for Mary? Who selected the manger as the crib? Did anyone offer to assist the Holy Family? Did you notice that the desolate surroundings did not dampen the arrival of Jesus—instead, it amplified Him?!?
May Jesus meet you in your situation with the most amazing encounter ever—amplifying His peace, love, and joy within your mind, body, and soul!
Peace be with you,
Kim
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