All Are Invited

4 Now Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, 5 in order to register along with Mary, who was [d]betrothed to him, and was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the [e]time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a [f]manger, because there was no [g]room for them in the inn. Luke 2

Jesus was the first to be born again. We don't think about this when we look at our own decision to be born again into relationship with God. But when Jesus was birthed in Bethlehem, he was born into a fallen world in order that He could save those who are in it. Prior to being here in this world, He was with our Heavenly Father and likely at peace with all life and existence.

The place of birth was of the Father's design and meant to foreshadow the way in which we would be reborn into new relationship with Him. It was not a palatial residence for someone of inherent prominence. Jesus was instead relegated to a stable because the inn was too busy with the census congestion. Who is it that came to His birthday? It was everyone who could see the star and who heard the prompting of angels.

Three kings came to visit Jesus and brought with them expensive gifts. The simple shepherds came to celebrate Jesus with nothing to give but themselves. And then there were the heavenly host, as angels came to adore Him. Everyone was welcome and no one felt as though they were unworthy of Him. The humble confines of a manger did not turn anyone away. God wanted everyone to come to His son's birthday, because God loves all people.

I talk with Jesus in a coffee shop in Kaimuki, which promotes lifestyles of those who differ from the norm. In my opinion, they have the best coffee and coffee cake in Honolulu. Jesus meets with me and I feel His presence. Irrespective of the place, He is willing to fellowship with anyone who would have Him. I believe this is why Jesus sent his disciples out into places of the world. It is because people wouldn't necessarily feel comfortable coming into a sacred sanctuary, but Jesus is willing to go anywhere for the sake of those whom the Father loves.

What can we do to celebrate Jesus' birth today?

1. Invite anyone who is willing to come near to him. If they are unwilling to come to a sanctuary, go to them and have them join with you in celebration.

2. Jesus is inclusive and does not exclude anyone. The devil will try and create fences which keep people away from Him, and these will not help God's purpose. We can still promote what is Godly while inviting people to come near to Him. When someone comes into relationship with Jesus, they will know the truth about life and turn from their ways.

3. Allow the Holy Spirit to break down the walls that keep people from encountering Jesus. After Jesus went to be with the Father He sent the Holy Spirit to be with all of us. While Jesus could only be in one place at a time, the Holy Spirit can be in all places where God desires to be. The Holy Spirit can break through walls which the devil erects so that all people can come into relationship with our Lord.

We have the opportunity to celebrate this season and it is God who sent out the invitation 2000 years ago. Let us celebrate Jesus' birth and invite all whom God calls to the party.

Father,

Thank you for your son Jesus. May I celebrate His birth today with all those whom you draw near.

Amen