When you have a baby, it brings on a new meaning to preparation. Clothing, bedding, cribs, not to mention the mental preparation that parents need to be ready for their bundle of joy. I can only imagine all that Mary had to do for Jesus. And all that God had prepared for his arrival!

When you look at the whole story before Jesus’ birth, you can see God’s wonderful plan. People foretelling his birth, preparing the way. The angels visiting Mary, and Joseph (in a dream) to prepare them. And having Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem and winding up in a stable. That stable was where the baby was born, the king of kings came into the world and was laid in a manger. It ended up being strangers, shepherds of all people who came to visit the baby after hearing of his arrival from angels. And later on Wise Men, who sought him out and brought him lavish gifts.

God had a wonderful way to prepare people for Jesus coming and then sent him into the world in the most humble way. He arrived without fanfare or the latest medical care. It was a simple birth, because Jesus came for the everyday people, not just great rulers.

So as we prepare for Christmas this year, with lights and decorations, it’s important we are also preparing for the real reason of the season. We should spend time reading our bible and reflecting on the meaning of Christmas. In other words, prepare our own hearts and homes.

So if you have your house decorated and baking started, I hope you enjoy every part of it. It’s an important part of the season, and it brings us together. I also hope you pull out your bible or print off a printable and reflect on it throughout the week! If you didn’t catch the printable last week you can download it below. Happy preparing!