Make Room

On Wednesday, we went caroling for mutual. It was set up in advance to have each home visited reject our caroling ("too busy", "had to go to work", "child is hurt", etc.). The youth were shocked that members of our ward would not even take a moment to hear them sing "Away in a Manger." As leaders, we played along being shocked with them at the rejection. We all "gave up" and went back to the Bishop's house for refreshments. When the door was opened, there stood a live nativity of Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus (thank you Muir family and baby David for being so good!). Beautiful music was playing in the background and the Spirit was very present. The youth sat in the living room quietly as the Bishop read the account of the Savior's birth in Luke. The comparison was made that just as we were rejected by those we were caroling to, Mary and Joseph were rejected at the inns. This evening was a reminder to never turn the Savior away, to always make room and let Him in.

How silently, how silently

The wondrous gift is given!

So God imparts to human hearts

The blessings of his heaven.

No ear may hear his coming;

But in this world of sin,

Where meek souls will receive him, still

The dear Christ enters in.

“O Little Town of Bethlehem”

(Hymns, 1985, no. 208.)

As we seek Christ, as we find Him, as we follow Him, we shall have the Christmas spirit, not for one fleeting day each year, but as a companion always (Thomas S. Monson).

Have a very Merry Christmas!