I arrive at the edge of the mystery hesitant and unfaithful. There is no mansion prepared in my heart to welcome the Christ child. Rather, the space around my soul is cluttered with mundane preoccupations and lists of preparations and disquiet about the strife in the world.

I call my wondering thoughts back, urging each one to let go of the false concern that has enticed it and to settle itself into prayer. This requires discipline. And coffee.

I let my morning ritual soothe me. The warm cup in my hands, the familiar view out my window, the candle I light to mark this time and space as sacred. In the stillness, a space begins to open up within me.

Perhaps not a mansion, but room enough for a manger. And after all, a manger is enough. Enough to welcome and hold the Savior of the world.

Be still, then, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations;
I will be exalted in the earth.
Psalm 46:11