As we celebrate Christmas, let us take a moment to reflect on the story of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. This story is more than a historical event; it’s a message of hope, unlimited second chances, and the assurance that it’s never too late to start something new. 

The world often tells us that being late is unforgivable, that missed opportunities are final. But the Christmas story reminds us otherwise. In Luke’s Gospel, we read: 

“While they were in Bethlehem, the time came for Mary to have the baby, and she gave birth to her first son. Because there were no rooms left in the inn, she wrapped the baby with pieces of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough” (Luke 2:6-7, NCV). 

Consider the innkeeper in this passage. He missed the chance to witness the greatest miracle of all time because his heart wasn’t prepared to make room. Was it the late hour, the ordinariness of Mary and Joseph, or simply the inconvenience? Whatever the reason, the opportunity passed him by. 

Max Lucado, in his book Because of Bethlehem, reminds us that many still miss the opportunity to open the door of their hearts to Jesus. Like the innkeeper, we can become so consumed with the busyness of life that we overlook the knock of Christ—a knock that comes not with fanfare but quietly, persistently, and lovingly. 

This Christmas, let us not miss the knock. Jesus, the Light of the World, stands at the door of our hearts, waiting for us to let Him in.  

William Holman Hunt’s famous painting The Light of the World beautifully captures this truth (image to right, public domain). Jesus holds a lantern, standing before an overgrown door without a handle—a door that can only be opened from the inside. The artist’s inspiration from Revelation 3:20 reminds us of Jesus’ words: “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him.” 

Christmas is the season when God calls to us anew. He doesn’t come with a list of demands but with a promise of peace, joy, and purpose. Lucado writes, “Jesus comes not with a list of things for you to do but with a list of things He has already done and will do. Jesus lifts burdens; He doesn’t add to them.” 

It’s never too late for Christ to help. The Bible is filled with stories of people who thought they were too far gone, too old, or too flawed for God to use—yet He worked through them in miraculous ways: 

• Elijah was depressed, yet God met him in his despair. 

• Abraham was old, yet God led him to a new beginning. 

• Moses felt unqualified, yet God called him to lead His people. 

• Peter denied Christ, yet Jesus restored him. 

• Paul persecuted the church, yet God transformed him into its greatest advocate. 

This Christmas, remember: It’s not too late for us either. Jesus stands ready to enter our lives, to lift our burdens, and to lead us into the future He has planned. Let us open the door of our hearts and invite Him in. 

Wishing you a joyous and hope-filled Christmas,