Transparent Christian Magazine

Several years ago when I became exasperated with the commercialism of Christmas, I began collecting nativity sets to remind me and my family why we celebrate Christmas.  At one point I declared that instead of a Christmas tree I would have a large nativity set in the middle of my family room the next year.  At the urging of my son, then about eight, I did keep the tree but started my collection.

Just recently, I cleared off my shelves and tables and began to display the nativities.  As I looked at the faces of the figurines, I saw childlike innocence and expressions reminding me of the childlike faith in which we come to Him.  Some had a regal elegance fitting for the royalty of the King.

As I unpacked the figures of Mary and Joseph, shepherds, angels, wise men and a plethora of sheep, cows and camels, I would place the most important piece, the manger with the Christ child, in its spot.  I thought of what the scene would look like with something else in the place of the Holy child.  And then I realized that this was often the scene of my heart.

I realized that I often allow people such as my parents, my children, and my spouse in His spot. I long for the approval of others sometimes more than His. I let my adoration for them push Him to the side, and search for their approval and companionship above His. I allow money, career, education and power to slide over into His place.  I look to these for security, validation, and purpose. I allow other miniscule things to occupy time that could be spent with Him.  How discarded He must feel when I leave him for such idle and vain things.

Even as I placed the baby and His lowly manger at the forefront of each set, I realized that the manger was not His place either.  He chose to leave His home in heaven to come to earth for me… someone that often pushes him aside for such trivial vices.  And now He chooses to make His home in my heart.

In my heart, I realize that at best I often offer him the manger, the trough.  But this Christmas, I want to offer Him the throne again, a place of honor above all else. After all, He longs to be King, in your life and mine.