2nd Sunday of Advent: The Lighting of the Bethlehem Candle

Preparations for The Messiah

It doesn't seem that much of anything was done to prepare for the 1st advent of Jesus. The intention was that Mary and Joseph would spend the night in an Inn. That didn't work out so they were allowed to spend the night in the stable...a barn.

Growing up in the Ozarks I heard a lot of mannerism, old sayings, that made complete sense to me. One of those that might be said by an impatient, and probably exasperated, old-timer was -- "Were you born in a barn? Stick a board in the hole!"

In other words -- "Close the door!"

I think it safe to say that down through history not much has ever been expected of someone so impoverished that they were 'born in a barn.'

Jesus was born in a barn. Jesus, the first-born of impoverished laboring class parents, didn't have to face any real expectations from the townspeople. In fact, it was quite the opposite. The townspeople, as would eventually be stated, would not wish him any success or accomplishment. Who would He think He was, this son of a construction laborer, to come back to the hometown and 'teach' them?

No preparations for His birth, and no preparations to welcome Him back home in any capacity other than ignominy.

A neat old song says, "How about your heart, is it right with God -- that's the thing that counts today." by Bennie S Triplett 1954 

I really enjoy all the trappings of Christmas and love the traditions of celebration. I am an overgrown kid when it comes to Christmas...

However, I am not certain very many folks get past all the fun and festivities to the simplicity of preparation that God wants for us. It is the simple preparation of the 'heart' for the joy and peace God wants to give us through that marvelous gift of His Son.

How about your heart? Is it right with God? If it is you will experience joy and peace, grace and gratitude, forgiving and forgiveness.

The Grace of God through Jesus gives us a heart prepared to live -- and let live. To God be the Glory, great things He has done.