Luke 2:7 is a very familiar story, especially at this time of year.
Scripture says it this way; While they were there, the time came for her Child to be born. And she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son. She wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
No room at the Inn.
In some households the same is true today.
During this time in scripture, the Bible tells us that a decree had went out and everyone had to be registered. Therefore, it was busy everywhere, people were quickly traveling back to their homes and working fast to make sure everything was in order. It was a busy time in the city. So busy, that when Joseph and Mary arrived, they could not find any place to stay. They knocked on door after door, yet no one allowed them entrance. That is, until they made their abode in the corner of a manger.
Today, it is again a busy time of year. People are frantically rushing around trying to purchase the perfect gift. And I must say, they are not all doing it cheerfully, at least not from what I have witnessed.
They are going from event to event in haste. Making sure they have taken care of everything they deem necessary. For many people, they are more concerned with gifts and events than they are about the main reason we celebrate this season, which is to celebrate Jesus and His birth.
Many years ago, Mary and Joseph were searching for a place to give birth to a miracle. That miracle was the Savior of this world. Even then they were told, “I’m sorry there is no room for you here.”
Is it really any different today?
Revelation 3:20 says, 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.
Should this be a season we simply rush through? Should we not acknowledge that Jesus is once again standing at the door knocking? He is looking for a place to make His abode. He wants that place to be in us. He is searching for a place for miracles to take place – will that place be found in you?
When He knocks, will we open the door and allow Him room in our hearts and in our homes, or will we, like those in the days of His birth reply, “I’m sorry, there is no room here, I don’t have time for that right now, I have too much to get done.”
We Christians proudly declare, “Jesus is the reason for the season” but is He really? Are we giving Him first place during this season?
I don’t know about you, but for me, this Christmas season, more than any Christmas season I can recall, God has required more of me.
I am giving Him more time, not less. I am working my schedule around Him, not fitting Him into my time. I am spending more time in His presence and less time worrying about the presents. I am leaning in to listen to where He will have me give and what He would have me do.
So far, it has been the most peaceful and joyful holiday season I have had in several years. It seems to me that His presence increases with each passing day. I am not rushing through the holiday season, instead I am keeping my focus firmly on God and He is blessing me with His presence and His peace.
I said all that to say this. If this holiday is stressing you. If you are rushing around trying to make sure everything gets done – STOP. Stop and listen for His voice. Stop and listen…is He knocking on the door of your heart? Can you…will you…make room for Him? Will you allow Him the most prominent seat in your home and in your heart? Or will you place Him in the corner until you have time for Him?
I encourage you to remember the REASON for the season and put Him first. You will be so glad you did.
I know God wants to fill you with His peace and JOY, will you make room for Him? I know God wants you to be blessed and empowered during this season…will you make room for Him?
Jesus is the reason for the season…Oh COME LET US ADORE HIM. Let every heart prepare Him room…. even this day!
