“… There was no room for them in the inn”. Luke 2:7

The clock was ticking down the hours and minutes until my deadline. Inside my head, I had nothing, no offering of words of encouragement.

There was nothing but the noise of the television with the news and commercials telling us there wasn’t much time to purchase those last minute gifts. There was a reporter at Union Station in Las Angeles surrounded by the Salvation Army band. They were asking people to stop and donate so those less fortunate would have something for Christmas. Some people stopped, but most hurried on their way. Does this sound familiar with a well-known story from the Bible?

What a gift the Lord gave me in those moments. In the midst of the noise and watching people hurrying about without giving notice to those in need I had a revelation. It made me appreciate how God can take anything and give a biblical truth. No one knows how Joseph and Mary felt as they went from place to place trying to find a private, quiet place for Jesus’ birth.

Things were much quieter for the shepherds out in the fields, which was until the angels appeared on the scene. I think there are times when it takes more for the Lord to get my attention, although I never had a heavenly host bring me a message.

The shepherds were obedient as they left their flocks and went into the city to find Jesus. Not only did they see Jesus, but they went on their way telling all they came in contact with about their experience. Do we take time to share the good news of the birth or are we rushing around trying to get somewhere. When was the last time you stopped in line at the store and said a kind word to the person next to you? What about that checker who is trying to get through their shift? Do you bawl them out for making you wait or do you offer encouragement? What about a phone call to an elderly shut-in or someone who is going through a difficult time? All of these are ways to share Jesus with others. You don’t have to wait for Christmas; it is something you can do every day of the year.

On a personal note, please allow me to share a little of Christmas past, Christmas present, and Christmas future. Last night, Mark and I were watching a classic Christmas movie. We watch it every year and every year I comment on favorite memories of Christmas as a child spent with my parents, grandparents, and brother.

For Christmas present, I was blessed on Saturday baking cookies with my Mother. Many years have passed since we last baked for Christmas together.

Of course we had to taste everything as we laughed and talked together. It was such a blessing.

Christmas future is coming with two opportunities to worship on these special days celebrating our Savior’s birth. Many churches are having Christmas Eve candlelight services. This is one of my favorite services of the year. There is something so tender and spiritual singing Silent Night together by candle light. The next morning, many churches will hold a special worship service so families have a time to worship together and still have time to open presents.

My wish for you is that you may find the true peace of Christmas.

Blessed Christmas everyone!

Debra Whittington is a longtime resident of Tucumcari. Contact her at:

dawhittington@msn.com