Small roles, big impact: Finding your place in the Christmas story

By Dawn Dawson, Canada East Mission Centre Co-President

Have you ever had the feeling that something is happening, but you don’t know what? You’re on the verge of something great, but you have to wait, taking one step at a time and feeling the anticipation.

What about those we think about as we hear the Christmas story—did they have a feeling that something wonderful was happening? We hear about the angels, the shepherds, the wise men, and the innkeeper. The innkeeper’s part in the telling of the Christmas story has grown through the years. The verse in Luke 2 reads: “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn.” Yet the innkeeper has become one of the pivotal moments in the big story. He showed compassion and love to a young couple who, for some reason, pulled at his heart.

There may have been many he turned away that night—stragglers coming into town for the census—but this couple was different. He didn’t simply shut the door on them; instead, he offered them an option: the stable out back. There are no small roles. It takes everyone and their gifts to create the big event. We might look at the innkeeper as someone who had a feeling that something wasn’t quite right. He felt compelled to show grace to this couple.

As we prepare for Christmas, we, too, may feel something out of the ordinary. Something nudges our hearts to be a part of something bigger. Perhaps it means stepping out into the cold to attend concerts, services, suppers, or parades. We share joy with others as they, too, embrace these special moments. Our choice to be part of their story may bring great meaning to a story told later. Each of us has a gift and plays a role in the bigger picture.
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May you find love in anticipating something new. Embrace the joy of waiting with anticipation instead of worry. Believe in the possibilities your gift can bring. Take heart that even the smallest gift may be a pivotal part of a larger story. May we each find love, joy, hope, and peace this Christmas.