The Christmas story, found in chapter 2 of the Gospel according to Luke, is all too familiar. So familiar, in fact, that we are likely to miss out on some of the most interesting and amazing aspects of the account of Jesus’ birth.
One thing that has always stuck out to me is that the Savior of the world was born in a manger. Jesus, who would go on to perform miracles, teach us how to live, and eventually die on a cross for our sins, humbly entered this world and likely spent his first night on earth in a feeding trough.
Luke 2:7 (KJV) tells us, “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.”
It makes sense that the inn was full, right? I mean Caesar Augustus decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire, and it’s a good bet that travelers from all over were passing through cities and villages on the way to their ancestral towns in order to register.
However, had the innkeeper known that Mary was carrying the Messiah, I have a feeling he would have made room. If any one of the guests had a clue that the Savior was about to be born, I’m pretty sure they’d have given up their room for Mary and Joseph.
This Christmas, I’d like to encourage all of you to make room. Make room in your life for those with whom you don’t always agree. Make room at the dinner table for that neighbor who you know is spending Christmas alone. Make room for that family member you haven’t spoken to in three years.
But most importantly, make room in your heart for Jesus. When Christ was asked which commandment was most important, Matthew 22:37 (NIV) tells us, “Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’”
Truth & Discernment 