About two thousand years ago, Mary and Joseph walked a cold and dark road to Bethlehem. As foretold by the prophet Micah, the Savior was to be born in a place that was “little among the thousands of Judah” (Micah 5:2). The One to be Ruler of Israel, the Messiah, the King of kings would be born in Bethlehem. The Bread of Life was to be born in the House of Bread, and just like bread nourishes our bodies, He came to save us and nourish our souls.

The Inn was full. There was no room for the Lamb of God, just like at times, our hearts are too full of earthly concerns to have room for Jesus. The Inn must have been bustling with people, sojourners, all there to eat, sleep and move on with their travels. But Mary who carried the Holy One had no room to lay her head and rest her feet. Joseph, being aware of the Godly child she carried, must have been scrambling around trying to find lodging.

But no lodging was to be found. The Shepherd of men was to be born between the shepherds of sheep. There were no servants, no silk blankets, and no luxuries. Instead, the divine birth took place between the donkeys, cows, and goats. It must have been cold and dark. Yet the Sun of Righteousness was born to warm up our hearts, and his True Light to shine upon us.

This Christmas season, follow Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Await the coming of the Lord and reflect on His humble birth. Prepare your hearts for Jesus.