People Still Come Knocking

"When did we see you?" Matthew 25:40

Perhaps we can relate with Mary and Joseph, journeying to Bethlehem only to be turned away. We, too, have faced closed doors and rejection. How easy it would be to become frustrated with those who will not accommodate such a basic need!

Or maybe we read the Christmas story as if we are bystanders. From that perspective, we may find it hard to understand the callousness of those who turned them away. Even without knowing who was at their door, to turn away a woman in labor is heartless and cruel. How could they?

But we likely need to envision ourselves in a different role. In many ways, are we not like those who didn’t have room? I am sure the innkeepers all had their reasons. The homes must have been full, the beds all claimed. Surely there were other places available. Thinking of their own circumstances, Bethlehem turned Mary and Joseph away.

We can relate to them, can’t we? Who has not wrestled with uncertainty of how to respond to a stranger on the street, asking for help, or a person who weaves a story of sorrow and need? Who has not questioned the legitimacy of a need or even feared for their own safety if they get involved? I don’t want someone to take advantage of me. I do not want to be conned or to enable bad behavior. It is safest not to get involved. Someone else will care for them.

We might even neglect the needs of people we know. When a talkative friend or neighbor is struggling, perhaps we turn a deaf ear in order to avoid a long conversation. Maybe we suspect that someone is in need, but lack the courage to ask, lest we embarrass them. In our neglect, real needs may be overlooked.

The fact is, I’m not sure I would have behaved any differently than Bethlehem’s innkeepers. I act just like them far too often.

How could they turn Mary and Joseph away? 

How can we? Christ Jesus still comes to our doors, but just like those in ancient Bethlehem, we seldom recognize him. 

In Matthew 25, Jesus compares the last judgment to a shepherd separating sheep from goats. He knows who belongs to him! The “sheep” believe in him and his salvation. Knowing them, he says, “I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me….” (Matthew 25:35). His sheep are confused. “When, Lord? When did we see you? I don’t remember that!” Jesus answers, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me” (Matthew 25:40).

We have the same opportunity as the Bethlehem innkeepers. Even today, the Lord comes to our doors in our neighbor. As the redeemed, empowered by his mercy, he calls us to bless those in need. To share his abundant gifts. To love. For when we welcome the least, the last, and the lost, we welcome him.