Reflections on Faith, Surrender, and Making Room for Christ

“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” — Luke 2:19

Year after year, we return to the story we know so well—the birth of Jesus. We have heard it proclaimed, sung it in carols, and seen it displayed in nativity scenes. Yet this holy story is more than something we remember; it is something that continues to question us. The Nativity is not a silent scene frozen in time. It is alive with voices, decisions, faith, fear, obedience, and worship.

Today, the day after Christmas is quieter. The carols fade, the gifts are unwrapped, and life slowly returns to its familiar rhythm. Yet the story of Christmas does not end when the celebration is over. In many ways, it is only just beginning. The Nativity is more than a scene we display or a story we retell—it is a mirror held before our lives. Around the manger stand angels and shepherds, Mary and Joseph, wise men and kings, an innkeeper and a newborn child laid in a humble feeding trough. Each one encounters Christ differently. Each one responds in a way that reveals the condition of the heart. And so, on this day after Christmas, the question before us is simple yet searching ….Who are we in the Nativity story? How do we respond now that Christ has come—not just to Bethlehem, but to us?

The Angel: Bearers of Good News : Luke 2:8–14

The angel appears to the shepherds with words that still echo through the ages: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” The angel did not keep the message—he proclaimed it. He speaks peace into fear and hope into darkness.

So we ask ourselves: How do we carry the good news of Jesus today? Do our words bring peace, encouragement, and light? Do we allow the peace of Christ to rule in our own hearts before we try to share it with others?

Mary: Trusting God in Uncertainty – Luke 1:26–38

Mary received God’s call in a moment that overturns her understanding of the future. She does not have all the answers, yet she responded with trust: “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” Mary teaches us that faith does not require clarity—only surrender.

Where is God asking us to trust Him today? What uncertainties are we holding onto? Like Mary, will we say yes to God even when the path ahead is unclear?

Joseph: Obedience in the Quiet Place – Matthew 1:18–25

Joseph’s role is often silent, but his obedience speaks loudly. When faced with confusion and fear, he listens to God and chooses faithfulness. Joseph reminds us that following God may lead us down unexpected roads.

When God’s plan interrupts our own, how do we respond? Do we trust Him enough to obey—even when it differs from our own expectation, or when it costs us comfort or reputation?

The Shepherds: Responding with Joy – Luke 2:15–20

The shepherds heard the message and did not delay. Scripture tells us, “They hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby.” Their response was immediate, not meant to linger from a distance, joyful, and contagious, After seeing Jesus, they spread the word and glorify God.

What is our response to the good news of Christ? Do we run toward the Savior with open hearts? or Do we wait for the right time, more clarity or greater comfort before taking a step of faith? Are we willing to share the joy of Christmas with others?

The Wise Men: Worship and Offering – Matthew 2:1–12

The wise men journeyed far, guided by a star, seeking the King. When they found Him, they bowed down and worshiped, offering gifts fit for royalty. Their story asks us: What gift will we bring to Jesus? How will we honour Him as the King of our lives? What are we willing to lay aside to seek Jesus?Will we worship Him not only with words, but with our whole hearts—offering Him the very best of who we are?

Herod: The Fear of Surrender – Matthew 2:3–8, 16

Herod heard of the newborn King and is troubled. His fear turned into resistance, his pride into violence. He cannot surrender his throne. Herod’s story invites honest reflection:

What fears or pride keep us from fully surrendering to Christ? Are there areas of our lives where we cling to control, unwilling to let Jesus reign? Whenever we guard our own throne, we resist the peace of God.

The Innkeeper: Making Room – Luke 2:7

“There was no room for them in the inn.” Whether from busyness, distraction, or full schedules, the result is the same—no space for Christ.

Is there room for Jesus in our hearts today? Have we made space for Him in our lives, or are we too crowded with other concerns? Christ still comes humbly, still knocks gently. Will we open the door and welcome Him as Lord?

Gracious God, As we stand before the manger once more, Help us see ourselves in this holy story. Where we are afraid, speak peace. Where we are uncertain, teach us trust. Where we resist surrender, soften our hearts. Where our lives are crowded, help us make room. May we be messengers of good news like the angel, Trusting servants like Mary, Faithful and obedient like Joseph, Joyful witnesses like the shepherds, True worshippers like the wise men. And above all, Lord, May we welcome Christ not only into this season, But into every part of our lives. We offer ourselves to You anew, In the name of Jesus, Amen.