The Christmas season often brings with it a whirlwind of activity; shopping, gift-wrapping, and festive preparations. Amid the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to overlook the true reason for the season: Jesus Christ. The story of His birth reminds us that even from the beginning, there was no room for Him. As Luke 2:6–7 recounts:
“And so it was, that while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 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.”
Let’s explore why there was no room for Jesus then—and why we may still struggle to make room for Him today.
Ignorance: A Lack of Awareness
The innkeeper in Bethlehem didn’t know that the child about to be born was the Son of God. This ignorance isn’t unique to his time. Often, people fail to recognize the importance of Jesus in their lives due to a lack of knowledge or understanding. Scripture repeatedly encourages us to “listen” and “hear,” giving us opportunities to replace ignorance with wisdom. Are we missing opportunities to know Him better?
Indifference: A Lack of Concern
Perhaps the innkeeper was too busy or uninterested. He was preoccupied with filling rooms and managing his business, leaving no concern for the young couple in need. This reflects a broader prophecy in Isaiah 53:3:
“He is despised and rejected of men... and we esteemed Him not.”
Today, indifference still keeps many from Jesus. The season's focus often shifts to secular celebrations, sidelining the Savior in favor of Santa, Rudolph, and Frosty. This indifference is a call for us to realign our priorities.
Over-Involvement: A Lack of Space
The busyness of life often crowds out what truly matters. Christmas, intended as a celebration of Christ, becomes consumed by shopping, parties, and to-do lists. We are reminded in Revelation 3:20:
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in and dine with him, and he with Me.”
Making room for Jesus requires intentionality—choosing to prioritize Him amidst the chaos.
Hope for the Weary
For some, Christmas is not a joyful time but a season of grief, loneliness, or reflection. If this resonates with you, take heart in the name Emmanuel, meaning “God with us.” Jesus came to meet the deepest needs of our hearts. As John 3:16 proclaims, His love is for everyone:
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Looking Ahead
While the world might reject Jesus now, it won’t always be that way. The baby born in the manger will return as King. Philippians 2:10–11 declares:
“That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow... and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.”
As we celebrate this Christmas, let’s make room for Him—not just in our festivities but in our hearts and lives.
Final Reflection
Christmas should be more about Christ and less about the distractions. Let us remember:
To prioritize worship and reflection over consumerism.
To share His love with others in word and deed.
To prepare our hearts, not just our homes, for His presence.
One day, the world will say, “Make room for the King!” Let’s start now.
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