Pastor's Post 12/21/2022

Dear Shiloh Family,

     Walk with me if you will and imagine the dialogue of a weary traveler.  

      “But sir, we have been traveling for four days on a donkey, and my wife is pregnant.”

     “I’m sorry, but there are no rooms available.”

     “You don’t understand, I have money. I can pay.”

     “No! You don’t understand; It’s tax season.  There are important businessmen who are regulars in this establishment. I have no room for you here.”

    “Not even a small space?  You are our last hope.  We have tried every possible option.  Besides, it’s going to be a boy, and he is a very special child…”

    The innkeeper interrupts and replies, “My friend, I truly hope you have a son because all sons are special.  But for all I know, he could be the son of God.  I still say, we have no room for him here.”  

     Joseph sighs and pleads, “I understand.  Do you have any suggestions?”

     “Well, we have a stable out back.  In fact, it’s a cave, so it stays relatively warm all year.  It isn’t much, but it will get you out of the elements. There is a large manger and plenty of hay for bedding.”

     “We’ll take it.  What do I owe you?”

     Almost snidely, the clerk retorts, “There’s no charge.  If this baby is as special as you claim, maybe it will earn me some points with God.”

     In the video of my mind’s eye, I can see Joseph smile and calmly reply, “Sir, even though you don’t have a room, and whether you accept it or not…Jesus is coming soon.

Luke 2:7

7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. NKJV

     I know, I took liberty with dialogue and translated it into modern vernacular.  But can you imagine the streets of Bethlehem if they had known who had come to their quaint little town?  I’m convinced that the candles, oil lamps, torches, and lanterns would have paled the lights of Pigeon Forge. However, they will be forever known as the town that put the Savior of the world in a manger.  

     Christmas celebrates the coming of that special baby.  We laud the angels, shepherds, wisemen, Joseph, and Mary.  However, that same Jesus who came to Bethlehem is still seeking room in the hearts of people today…but there is no room in the inn.  We read the story, we hear the sermons, we even see the signs, but we put Him in a stable in the back of our existence.  Whether or not we make room for him or choose to accept him…Jesus is coming soon. And all he asks is that we let Him into our hearts.  

Revelation 3:20

20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. KJV

Make room in your heart for Jesus.  
    

 Celebrate the child but surrender to the Savior.   

 God bless you all,

 Pastor Derrell