Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas

As the season of Advent approaches, our hearts turn toward the beauty and wonder of Christmas. It’s a time of celebration, reflection, and preparation. Yet, in the midst of the lights, gatherings, and gifts, we can easily forget the profound humility of the first Christmas night—a night when the Savior of the world entered the world as a small, vulnerable baby, only to find there was no room for Him in the inn.

The Humility of Christ’s Birth

Imagine this: the King of kings, the Creator of the universe, chose to enter His creation not in grandeur or splendor but in simplicity. Born in a stable, laid in a manger—a feeding trough—because there was no room for Him anywhere else. The irony is staggering. The One who upholds all things by His word was denied even the most basic accommodation.

This humility speaks volumes about the nature of God’s love for us. Christ came not to demand, but to give. He came not to be served, but to serve. From His very birth, Jesus identified with the lowly and the forgotten, showing us that no place, no person, and no situation is too humble for His presence.

A World That Had No Room

The world that had no room for Christ in Bethlehem is much like our world today. It’s noisy, distracted, and often too busy to notice the profound. The inn was full, just as our lives often feel full—overflowing with to-do lists, obligations, and the endless hum of modern life.

But just as the innkeeper missed the chance to welcome the Savior of the world, we risk missing Him too if we don’t make space in our hearts. Christmas isn’t about squeezing Jesus into an already crowded schedule. It’s about clearing out the clutter so He can truly dwell within us.

Preparing Our Hearts

How do we prepare our hearts for Christmas?

1. Make Space: Just as Mary and Joseph sought a place for Jesus, we must intentionally create space for Him. This might mean setting aside quiet time each day to pray, read Scripture, or simply sit in His presence.

2. Reflect on His Humility: Meditate on the incredible truth that Jesus chose to come as a baby. Let this remind you of His love and His desire to be close to you, no matter your circumstances.

3. Extend Hospitality: Open your heart to others. When we make room for those in need—whether through acts of kindness, generosity, or simply listening—we reflect the heart of Christ.

4. Simplify the Season: Christmas isn’t about perfection or extravagance. It’s about connection—first with God, and then with others. Let go of the pressure to do it all, and focus on what truly matters.

The Greatest Gift

As we prepare for Christmas, let us remember the greatest gift we’ve ever received: Jesus Himself. He didn’t come to condemn the world but to save it (John 3:17). His birth is a reminder that God so loved the world, He gave His only Son, so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).

This Christmas, may our hearts not echo the crowded inn but instead be places of welcome, ready to receive the Savior. Let us slow down, make room, and marvel at the incredible truth: God is with us.

Preparing Your Kids’ Hearts

One of the greatest joys of Christmas is sharing the true meaning of the season with your children. Helping them prepare their hearts for Jesus allows them to experience the beauty of His love in a personal way.

A wonderful way to guide your family in this season is through a Christmas devotional. Our family devotional, Following the Star - A 25 Day Family Christmas Devotional, is designed to help children and parents alike journey together through Scripture and meaningful reflections. Each day draws your family closer to Christ and reminds you of the wonder of His birth.

This devotional is available HERE and makes a beautiful addition to your Advent season. Let it be a tool to cultivate a deeper understanding of the Christmas story in the hearts of your little ones, all while strengthening your family’s faith.

May your Christmas season be filled with peace, joy, and the presence of the Savior who came to dwell with us.

Purchase Following the Star - A 25 Day Family Christmas Devotional on Amazon!