The Characters of Christmas

I've often wondered about some of the characters who played a part in the Christmas story. While the Scriptures make only passing mention, they were real people living real lives every day. How did their part in the story alter their lives ... or did it?

Think of the innkeeper there in Bethlehem. Did he ever come to realize who it was that he turned away? Did he live with regret? Surely he could have found a little bit of space somewhere. His own room perhaps? But no, there was nothing available for a young couple in crisis. The Son of God had to be born in a stable.

The shepherds are an interesting lot. They were loners who had long since lost the good reputation they had enjoyed in David's day. Yet it was to them the angels revealed Jesus' birth. What might their lives have been like after that miraculous night? Did they think about it often in the years that followed?

Then there was Joseph. We just don't know much of this man who played such a role in the life of Jesus. He was there. I imagine he was scared. I would have been. Who was this young girl giving birth? Who's baby was it ... really? He knew her story. He'd had a visit from an angel himself assuring him that it was alright. But that night, it all became so very real for him. Too real. What would the rest of his days bring as he guided God's very own Son through this life?

Each and every one of us is given insights and opportunities in this life. They are God-given opportunities to play our part in the Divine plan. It may be as big as preaching the gospel to multitudes or as small as making room for someone in need. It may be as simple as worshiping the One who's birth we celebrate. Whatever part God has ordained for you to play, I encourage you this Christmas: Don't hesitate. Dive in. Be willing to lose yourself in that thing God has called you to. There you'll find your fulfillment. You'll find your peace, and joy and strength. There you'll find all of Him waiting for you.