Women's Christmas Dinner

Saturday was our annual Christmas dinner. This year was even more special because Cassidy was finally old enough to legally go. Each year she helps me set the table up while we sip Starbucks, but in the past she has not been able to attend. It was definitely better with her there. She designed the table and picked out some of the foo-foo's. Next year she said she is doing her own table and will fill the table with her friends!

It always starts the season off by getting the proper focus of the holiday and this year was no different. My neighbor was able to attend with her mom and they both loved it. It was a good message and I am glad we both shared it together.

It started me thinking about the story of Christmas. Normally I like to wish I was Mary, just a willing young girl of strong faith, ready to do the will of God with such a joyful attitude, without much thought to what others would think of her. Realistically, though, I find myself thinking I was the innkeeper.

Sounds strange, but let me explain. The innkeeper was so wrapped up in his own life that he missed the opportunity to share in one of the best moments ever. The phrase from Luke 2:7..."because there was no room at the inn." What was the reason there were no more accommodations? Was the keeper so busy with his job he could not stop to see the One who was coming? Was he oblivious to the needs of those around him?

I know the town must have been bustling because of the census, but could he have been so busy that he could not  take in a mother ready to give birth?  Were his own plans so important that he could not offer his own home? Would I?  Would I stop what business I was partaking in to still the small voice inside me that stirs?

Will I now?  Will I take the time now to focus on the King instead of the busyness that steals my time?  Will I drop to worship the Babe in a manger, who humbled himself  for me who is so undeserved? 

That is my plan....