Invite Him In
Suggested Reading: Luke 19:1-10
It’s December! This time of year, during the hustle and bustle of the season, we all usually find time to decorate our homes with festive decor. I know in our house, it’s a whole family event! We transform our homes, sometimes inside and out to reflect the change happening around us, that is, the celebration of the birth of our Savior, Jesus. It makes me think of the profound story of Zacchaeus, a story that intertwines the joy of the season with the transformative power of Jesus.
Zacchaeus, like many of us during the Christmas season, had a curiosity for something more. His longing to see Jesus led him to climb a tree, demonstrating a proactive desire to experience the presence of the Savior. (v. 3-4) Similarly, this Christmas, may we seek Jesus with genuine curiosity, actively looking for His presence among the festivities and distractions.Zacchaeus faced judgment from society, yet he chose to bring Jesus into his home, defying societal norms. (v.7) In the same vein, Christmas challenges us to be countercultural, inviting Jesus into our homes despite the pressures of the world. Just as Zacchaeus had to make a choice to follow Jesus, so do we during this season. The message of Christmas encourages us to prioritize the presence of Jesus over cultural expectations, which leads to a transformation of our hearts.
Zacchaeus’s life was changed forever when Jesus entered his home. (v.8-10) His curiosity and choice to follow Jesus led to repentance and a generous heart. Christmas is a beautiful season that naturally challenges us to bring Jesus into our homes, not just on December 25th, but into our daily lives. The impact of Jesus’ presence in our homes can be profound, touching every aspect of our lives and our family’s lives (especially in the lives of our children!).
Luke 19:9 says, “Today salvation has come to this house,”. I pray we recognize the whole plan for Christmas was that salvation would come to every home. Our Holy God, all-knowing and all-powerful, left his throne to sleep by animals as an infant who could only eat, sleep and cry. He took on the infancy and the cross for our salvation.
So, as we celebrate the birth of Christ, let us intentionally bring Him into our homes. May our homes be filled not only with festive decorations but with the transformative presence of Jesus. I pray your homes are filled with prayers together, reading the Bible, worship songs sung together and meaningful conversations that allow us to “know and proclaim the saving work of Jesus Christ”.
Let us be intentional, like Zacchaeus, in seeking, inviting, and embracing the change that comes when Jesus enters our lives and homes.
Need ideas for Faith-Filled Holidays? Check out all the FREE resources at the UKids check-in stations: Advent Calendars, Jesus Birthday Party and Cake Kits, Faith-Filled Holidays packets and more! Family devotional books were also sent home in UKids and in Youth last week.