It’s a busy season for most, with Christmas festivities in the mix of everyday routines. Many are gathering together, and the crowds are evident all around. As we are in the Advent season, the hope and love of a Savior born abound. Picture Mary for a moment. She was probably relieved to get to the inn in the small town of Bethlehem, only to find it crowded and no space to spare. Instead, she would have to settle for giving birth to Jesus in the stables. Simple yet so profound. In this busy season, as we rejoice in our Savior, may we make it a spacious season.
I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:10b-11
As we revisit an incredible story that most know by heart, we are invited to experience the wonder, hope, and love of the One who came for you and me. The angel who brought good news to the shepherds ignites our hearts, too, because we know the Creator who fills us with His splendor and wonder. It was great news then, and it’s great news now.
As we say goodbye to a year filled with great triumphs yet most likely intertwined with grief and struggles, I hope we can all say it was good. In the ups and downs that write the stories of this past year, the goodness of God is etched on the pages of our hearts.
While there was no room in the inn, there was still room to birth the wonder and splendor of the One who resides within us. Away from the crowds of life that can try to distract us, there is a spacious place we can always find when we rest in Christ. Goodness can be found in the most simple things.
Reflecting on another year, I try to recall memories from twelve months ago. I think of the heart-wrenching moments and find grace. I think of all the growth and treasured times. Looking back, I have also found myself going back to the beginning – the very beginning in Genesis. It’s humbling to think that God saw everything He made as good.
God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.
Genesis 1:31
God saw all that He had made as very good. All of creation is good. He saw the people He created as good. I, too, want to see myself as good and reflect on the goodness. Sure, there have been hurdles along the way, but God’s goodness outweighs it all.
I want to see the good in those around me. We reside in a crowded, imperfect world, but there is goodness all around. The more we look for it, the more we will notice that there is so much good.
Making space to reflect is good for our hearts and minds, and there’s no better time than now as we say goodbye to another year and soon enter into a new one.
What has been good for you this year? Carry that goodness with you into every season.