Christmas At Home

"And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." (Luke 2:1-7 NKJ)

Nat King Cole sang “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and it became a classic holiday hit. We all know about crowded bus stations, train terminals, and airports at Christmas. The highways are not much better. Everyone wants to get home for Christmas to be with family. Joseph and Mary did not go home to Bethlehem for Christmas. They were ordered by the Emperor to come there for registration and taxion. In actuality, they were there by divine decree to fulfill prophecy. They had come home for a baby to be born.

Former US Senate Chaplain, Dr. Peter Marshall once said, “Something almost magical seems to happen at Christmas. It’s as if the whole nation suddenly gets the real meaning of it.” At Christmas, we walk with a little more pep; we smile more at passersby; and we are more generous than any other time in the year. Our desire to be home for Christmas is increased by the kitchen smells or memories of mom’s baking. Christmas carols on the radio, TV, and in the stores encourage us to go home for the holidays. Many things evoke memories of past Christmases and perhaps happier times when we were children.

In The Pickwick Papers Charles Dickens wrote, “Happy, happy Christmas that can win us back to the delusions of our childhood days; that can recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth; that can transport the sailor and traveler, thousands of miles away, back to his own fireside and his quiet home.”

We all long to be at home for Christmas. How much better it would be to be in our heavenly home! Not just for Christmas but for all eternity! The baby born on that first Christmas in Bethlehem grew up and became our Savior. He was crucified on Calvary so that you and I would have a home in the Father’s house. We are here this 24th day of December 2006 because we have a yearning to be at home with the Lord.

Our earthly home may not have been a happy home. Perhaps our parents are no longer living. Perhaps it isn’t convenient to get together with family. We should remember, however, that our family gatherings here; the family around the Christmas tree; the various celebrations, etc are all preparing us for that day when we shall all go home for the final Christmas celebration in the Father’s house.

Dear Father, thank you for our home you have prepared for us in your house. Empower us to persevere to the end so that we may possess it fully. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Be strong and courageous today enjoying Christmas at home,