December 18, 2025
— Martin Luther · Source: "Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich her" (1535), tr. Catherine Winkworth, Lyra Germanica, first series
Luke 2:7 So she gave birth to her firstborn son, wrapped him in cloths and put him in a manger, because there was no room in the inn.
We often believe that through effort, piety, and planning, we can eventually draw closer to God; but in his Christmas hymn Luther marvels that the Lord who created all made Himself weak and small and lay in a manger. Salvation is never about man climbing upwards, but about God condescending downwards. The manger in Luke's Gospel reveals the busyness and rejection of the human heart, but also demonstrates God's choice and humility. The inn had no room, yet it could not stop God from coming. Ultimately, what truly needs to be emptied is not the world, but our hearts, so that Christ may enter.
Lord Jesus, thank you for coming into my life before I was ready. You chose the manger, and you also wished to enter my chaotic, crowded, and imperfect heart. Forgive my pride in proving myself through ability and performance, and teach me to rest in your humility. Today, I ask you to remove everything that occupies your place and prepare a dwelling place for you. May my life be a place you are willing to stay. Amen.