As children, the idea of Santa Claus sneaking into our homes on Christmas Eve is the pinnacle of excitement. We hang our stockings, leave out cookies and milk, and lie awake in bed, straining to hear the slightest jingle of bells. The thought of a jolly man sliding down the chimney to deliver gifts fills us with wonder and joy.
I think we see this differently through adult eyes. A stranger entering our home in the dead of night? Crawling down the chimney? What if he gets stuck? What a headache to deal with in the middle of the night, not to mention any potential repair bill. Suddenly, the magical dream we cherished as kids starts to sound like a nightmare.
Isn't it funny how our perspectives change? As adults, we're protective of our space and skeptical of unexpected visitors. The enchantment of a mysterious guest becomes a list of potential problems: security concerns, property damage, the sheer oddity of the situation. We prefer to keep our doors locked and our lives undisturbed.
Perhaps this is why some of us hesitate to let Jesus into our hearts. We worry: Will He disrupt my life? Make me change my ways? What if He asks too much of me? The idea of inviting someone in—even someone as loving as Jesus—can feel daunting. We fear the unknown and cling to the familiar, even if it's not fulfilling us.
But Jesus isn't a stranger looking to invade your space; He's a friend who stands at the door and knocks, waiting to be welcomed. Yes, He may rearrange the furniture of your heart, but only to make it more beautiful and more you than ever before. He comes not to take from you, but to give—to fill your life with purpose, joy, and peace that surpasses all understanding.
Just like the excitement we felt as children on Christmas Eve, anticipating the arrival of Santa and the gifts he'd bring, we can embrace that same wonder in welcoming Jesus. Except this time, the gifts He brings aren't toys or treats, but treasures of the soul—love, grace, forgiveness, and eternal life with God.
So this Christmas Eve, let's rekindle that childlike excitement and open our hearts to the One who knows us better than we know ourselves. Let’s not worry about the mess or the changes that may come. Instead, let's trust that any transformation He brings will be for our ultimate good. Christmas is about welcoming Jesus. He doesn’t come down the chimney, but He is ready to enter your heart as you trust in Him.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, we open our hearts to You this Christmas Eve. Come in and make Yourself at home. Transform us with Your love and fill us with the joy and peace only You can provide. Help us to trust in You like children, embracing the wonder of Your presence. Thank You for the priceless gifts You bring. Amen.