Remember the scene in the movie Forrest Gump, when Forrest was going to school on the bus? He was a new kid in school and did not have any friends. Poor Forrest, he went from seat to seat on the bus and the common response was "can't sit here, this seat is taken." There was one kid that just non-verbally told him that he could not sit with him by sliding to the edge of his seat, and giving him an evil glare. Finally Jenny, spoke up and said in a noticeable southern accent, "you can sit here." Forrest joined her in her seat and they formed a really interesting friendship which lasted through adulthood.
How many times have you been told "No, you can't sit here! There's no room! You're not one of us! There's not enough space, Sorry Charlie!" Rejection is painful and at times embarrassing. This is the same thing that Mary, the espoused wife of Joseph probably experienced. Mary was very pregnant, nearing her due date, and Joseph was simply trying to register and pay his taxes in Bethlehem. Mary was more than likely very uncomfortable on that donkey. Mary and Joseph walked up and down, in, around and through the streets of Bethlehem, in search of lodging and some place to rest until the time should come that she would be delivered. Finally, someone took pity on the young couple and said: I don't have space in my home, but you are more than welcome to lodge in the stable.
Most of us know the end of the story. We'll cover that later. During this season of Advent, let's examine ourselves and our hearts. Is there room for the love of others in your heart? Is there room for community service and meeting the needs of others in your heart. Is there room for you to love and forgive yourself for all that has passed and is over with. Friends, there is room at the altar. Make room in your hearts, LIVE, LAUGH and LOVE hard!
Peace,
Karsten
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