“And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” Luke 2:6,7
Devotional Thought For The Day
There are many homeless people throughout the world as we once again approach our commemoration of the birth of our dear Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. Many have been displaced because of war and violence. Others have been displaced because of famine and other natural disasters. Some have been forced to flee because of persecution – and most of these are Christians living in parts of the world dominated by other religions, Islam, Hinduism, and other primitive false religions. There is some comfort that Jesus came into this world without a proper place for His birthing. It doesn’t really matter where we are; the Lord is always watching over His dear children, to protect us, defend us, strengthen our faith, and finally to bring us home to Himself.
Many people in the Philippines are without homes right now. Likewise, those whose homes were destroyed in recent tornadoes in the Midwest. There are also people here in Colorado who remain displaced from their homes because of the horrific flooding in September. In many American cities there are homeless people – some by choice – who are struggling to survive colder nights. Most of us will not be bothered or troubled by such concerns as we gather with family and friends in warm, comfortable homes. At the least, let us remember those without the comforts of home in our prayers this coming week. And perhaps some of our compassion and benevolence could be expressed with a donation toward helping some to at least have a warm place to lay their heads at night.
The coming of Jesus was to alleviate human suffering. First He alleviates our suffering consciences and our need for convoluted re-visioning of our sins – by atoning for our sins and redeeming us, reconciling God to us in His cross. We are freed to honesty in our conversations with God, to confess our sin, to rejoice in His gracious mercy and forgiveness, and to rest ourselves in confidence in His love for us. Secondly, He instructs and inspires us to greater love, compassion, and concern for others – so that we no longer live for ourselves alone, but for Him, loving Him in our tender love and care for others, including those who like Him have “no place to lay their heads.” [Matt. 8:20] With the coming of Christ we witness the warmer, gentler side of God, and those who know and believe His love for us are compelled to greater warmth and gentleness toward others. May our love not grow cold in these latter days.
It is quite surprising how rather small and simple gestures of kindness and compassion can have a huge effect on others. We don’t realize how many people around us are grinding away in troubles, sorrows, difficulties, depression, and perhaps despair. We try to be resilient – it is expected, and it is our duty. But that doesn’t mean everyone is successful at surmounting their trials. What does a smile cost us, or a warm and genuine thank you, or a small commendation? What does a small gift cost us, or a card, or a modest financial gift to someone in need? Again, we must remember that “whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord” [Prov. 19:17], and He will surely receive and rejoice in our acts of kindness and love. May they be abundant this season and always, that true joy and gladness be increased everywhere – in accord with His love and goodness.
Prayer For The Day
Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for providing us with the most important security in life, Your forgiveness and mercy, and the assurance that we have eternal life in Your kingdom. Thank You also for the safety and warmth of the homes that we enjoy. Especially we thank You for the profound and powerful effect of Your love in our hearts. Help us to find many ways to convey sincere compassion, kindness, and encouragement to those around us. May the warmth of Your love be felt through us. Amen.