A manger. That was all that the young family had when their first child was born long ago. This was their home for a few days until they could find a more suitable room to stay. This was where they received kings and angels as visitors. I have been trying to imagine how they fared and every time I do I am touched by their humility and simplicity. The fact that the greatest King chose to be born in a place that you and I would only consider fit for animals, not even pets, is a message in itself. The family had merely a roof over their heads, enough warmth for an infant, and sufficient space for the new mother to recline. This emphasizes to me that we really do not need too much to live by. The greatest man that ever lived has proven that it is not the house that makes a home but those that live in it. The houses that we build may boast the most expensive finishes and contain the most wonderful furnishings, but we must realize that ultimately these are not the components of a home. It is the persons within that will truly fill it with the spirit, the warmth, and the beauty that only a loving family can inspire.
Eventually that new family went back to their real home, which was definitely more comfortable and secure than the stable, after all, the head of the family was a builder himself. He definitely would have tried his best to make his family’s home the best that he could. And so it is with our families today, we always aspire for them the best living conditions we can afford. But we should not stop at just constructing a house with the best materials; we must remember that the people inside are the reason for all that effort.
May we learn to live simply and experience the happiness that the spirit of sharing and loving brings. May our houses be filled with true warmth and joy that emanate from the hearts of every member of our home. Merry Christmas!
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