The Cave Where Jesus Was Born, Episode 22 (12/20/2021)

Welcome to the St. John the Evangelist’s Advent Podcast. Today is Episode 22, and I am the cave where Jesus was born.
A cave? Yes, a cave! In the limestone hills of Judea, caves made good shelters for animals. And villages were often built near them so people could remain close to their animals.

For many ages wind has howled and whipped outside of this cave. Many cold, dark nights have passed.

But on this cold, dark night, I hear footsteps. A donkey… With a person…no, two people! They settle their few belongings and the man builds a small fire for warmth and it makes the cave cozy. After some hours there is crying
– a baby! A baby is born, how beautiful! This little family is so happy. I hear them pray with one another and praise God for their new child, named Jesus.

A day passes. The man and woman and the child are content and peaceful, but wait. I hear more footsteps. Who could it be?? Shepherds! They have come to see the baby. They are filled with joy! They praise God
for the baby Jesus.

More days pass. The mom and dad and the shepherds love the baby Jesus. This cave has never felt so full – so full of love, of joy, of peace. SHHH! Did you hear that? More footsteps. Who could it be now?? Kings! Three kings! They too have come to see the baby boy. This baby Jesus must be royalty. He has brought poor shepherds and rich kings to Himself and his family has chosen to make a little home in this cave. I have never felt so full of life and love and joy. You are always welcome here dear Jesus.

This Advent, remember the best home isn’t the one that is fancy and full of expensive things. The best home is the one where Jesus is welcomed. When Jesus, and Mary, and Joseph made their home in me it changed everything! Jesus can even change a cave to a home filled with warmth and love. So let him change your heart this Christmas as you welcome him inside.

Dear Jesus, we welcome you into our hearts! Fill us with the love and joy that only you, Jesus, can give us. Amen.

Thank you for listening to our podcast! (read with lots of energy!) Tune in tomorrow for Episode 23 when we will hear from a sheep!