Christmas is not for curmudgeons! Charles Dickens famed character of Scrooge had to dredge up his cold and ghostly past before he could remember that he once was a pretty warm human being. We may have Scrooges in our midst, but we can’t let that stop us from opening our homes and our hearts to others. Part of the gift of Christmas is seeing the way God revealed His plans to those He would use to become part of His blessed event.  He invited shepherds to see his touring group of angelic singers who were celebrating with endless hallelujahs. A heavenly star filled the night sky, opening the way for some ancient kings to discover that small stable, the temporary home where Mary and Joseph would hold an open house for complete strangers to come in and express their joy. It was a continual celebration of open hearts and open houses.

Matthew 10:12 says, “When you enter someone’s home, say, ‘Peace be with you.’ If the people there welcome you, let your peace stay there.”  It’s hard to imagine a gift of more significance than the one that brings peace to your soul, to your heart, and to your home. If there’s anything the world is lacking these days, it’s a sense of peace and contentment, a true sense that all is well. Maybe you can’t hold on to that gift every day of the year, but what if you stepped away from those who shout “Bah, Hum Bug!” and instead shouted “Peace be with you!” What if you made it your present to everyone you know to bring them a gift of peace as soon as you enter their door? The chances are good that things will feel more festive, more energized and blessed. 

If you go to an open house this holiday season, walk through the door with the joy of knowing you have a gift to bring. You have a blessing that is more radiant than all the decorations, more beautiful than the tree in the hall, and more amazing than anything the retail world can devise. You have the secret of the season, the gift of God’s Son, who brings peace to every heart and every home where He is welcome. 

Oh, I can hear those angels singing even now! Peace Be with You and those you love!