Innkeeper, Episode 1 (11/28/2021)

Episode #1 - The Innkeeper

Scripture: When Mary gave birth to Jesus, “She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7

It was a very cold night when someone knocked at the door late one evening. A man and his young wife were looking for a room. Our city was full of people because of the census that the emperor, Caesar Augustus, had announced.

The man said his name was Joseph, and he had traveled far from Nazareth of Galilee, into Judea, and finally here, to the city of David. His wife, Mary, was very weary, and she looked at me with such hopeful yet pleading eyes. I could tell that she was pregnant and would give birth very soon. 

I knew they wouldn’t find any rooms available in Bethlehem. My own home was full! And it was late at night! It would be easier to turn them away and close the door. But how could I turn them away knowing there was nothing else? Joseph said he’d take anything because his wife needed rest and his donkey was tired. 

So I led them to a small cave where I kept straw and hay for my animals. At least they would be dry, and warm. It was a simple shelter, but it was all I had to give. I cleaned it up as best as I could and welcomed them in.

Not long after they arrived, she gave birth to her baby son! How happy I was that I didn’t turn them away! How happy I was that I gave them that little room in the cave.

As you prepare for Christmas, give Jesus room in your heart. Don’t be afraid to open the door of your heart when he knocks. It may not seem like much, it may be a little messy, but welcome him into your heart. Don’t turn him away or leave it someone else to welcome him.

Lord Jesus, during these special days of Advent help us to hear you knocking at the door of our hearts. Help us to open our hearts and let you in. Give us the joy of making room for you in our lives. Amen.

Prayer Starters for Parents:

"As you prepare for Christmas, give Jesus room in your heart. Don’t be afraid to open the door of your heart when he knocks." - Parents, before bedtime or at the start of the next day, lead your children in a simple prayer asking the Lord to enter more fully into your children's hearts. Lead them in prayer and model it for them. This will help them learn how to pray themselves.

Here's a simple example: "Lord Jesus, fill John's heart with your love. Help him to open the door of his heart to you. You want to live inside him and fill him with your love, peace, and joy. Like Mary, our Mother, help him say "Yes" to you and to open his heart to you this Christmas." Then you could end your prayer with a Hail Mary: "Mary, you know what it's like to hear Jesus knock on the door of your heart. Pray for us that can listen for Jesus and open our hearts like you did. Hail Mary, full of grace..."

It doesn't have to be complicated. Let the Holy Spirit lead you as you pray for and with your kids this Advent season!