Do you remember the scene described in the Bible in Luke 2:1-7. There are a lot of people, mostly Christ followers who look at that as the first Christmas. Mary and Joseph were on their way to Bethlehem for a census. She was extremely pregnant with Jesus at the time.  They discover upon arrival that there is no room for them anywhere in Bethlehem. All of the Inns are full and the only place for them to stay is in the stable at one of the inns.  

With the internet and resources we have today, we would never find ourselves in another town without a hotel being booked in advance, but can you imagine for a moment how tired Mary must have been. It says she was great with child. I have been “great with child” a few times, once with twins. The last thing I would want to hear is “sleep in the stable with the animals.” 

I picture Mary as a very graceful woman, who was happy that God wanted to use her. She probably took the complementary towels offered by the innkeeper and made her way to the stable.  I bet Joseph hugged her and said “Hon I’m sorry I didn’t plan better on this trip.” She probably smiled at him and said “God knows what He’s doing,” and then as gracefully as a nine month pregnant woman could, she sat down on a bed of hay to prepare to give birth to Jesus.  

Who are we kidding, I am sure that Mary did give Joseph a little bit of a hard time. I mean, she was in labor. If we know women in labor, they’re not exactly the happiest in that moment. Joseph wasn’t starting out with the best track record here. He forgot to book accommodation for Jesus! What was he thinking? We really don’t know because the gospel writers don’t tell us a lot. They only tell the beginning of the birth story of Jesus. Perhaps we see his humble beginning, so it shows that Jesus was not so different than anyone of us. God made flesh.

But, that same Jesus, who came over 2000 years ago to save us, and who died on a cross for your sins, is the same Jesus who is here today asking you to make room for Him in your heart. 

Take some time this Christmas to let Him in.

No Room

I could say no room,

But that would be a shame.

On Christmas, it’s about Him,

Not just about His name. 

If I just decorate my tree,

And hang some pretty lights.

If I put up all my tinsel,

Or set cookies out tonight.

Am I missing the big point?

Would it all just be a sham?

If I don’t make room for Jesus,

The only true spotless lamb.

Has Christmas lost its meaning,

Have I forgotten the first one?

In Bethlehem, in a stable,

When God sent His only son. 

I can’t say No room,

I must change what I say. 

Since God gave me everything,

I must make room today.

©2023 Marsha L. Brown