By: Rex Stump
“And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” Luke 2:7
At Christmas time we read the story of the birth of Jesus in Luke 2. Along with the many details we highlight the fact that Joseph and Mary couldn’t find a comfortable place to stay.
In children’s pageants and plays we see them reenacting the scene when a person comes to the door and says, “Sorry, there is no room at the inn.”
We sit watching this scene, softly saying to ourselves, “I would have made room.” We may even judge those who closed the doors on Joseph and Mary, declaring we would never have done that.
But is that true? How would anyone know that they had the Savior of the world standing within arm’s length of their life? It’s possible to look at this couple and see an inconvenience versus an opportunity.
We also look at this story and see a place that had no room. No room. Too many other people inside? Too cluttered?
Jesus said on the night He was arrested, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” (John 14:23)
Once again, we find the Savior looking for room. For those who will choose to love and obey Him, Jesus promises “we” will make “our” home with them! The presence of God, through the Holy Spirit wants to enter our life! Jesus wants room in our hearts!
The question remains, “Is there room for the Savior?” Have our hearts become too cluttered with pride, sin, and disobedience?
“In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.” (Psalm 10:4). Have our hearts become so cluttered with the things of this world, that we have left no room for God?
Take a moment and ask yourself, “Has my life become cluttered?” “Have I allowed the things of this world to fill my life, leaving no room for the Savior?” “Do I love my hobbies, my material possessions, or my pursuit of being known on social media more than my Savior?”
Fortunately, Joseph and Mary found a place for the Savior of the world to be born. He entered humanity in the humblest way. But now, Jesus stands at the door of our hearts and knocks.
Will you let Him in? Is there room for Him? Do you see Him as an opportunity for change or an inconvenience to your current lifestyle?
Life is difficult, filled with challenges around every corner. Sin and sickness exhaust our hearts. Make room for the Savior, the Light of the world, Comforter, Healer, and … the Prince of Peace.
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Rex Stump is the Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and serves as a Pastor at True North Church in Wauseon, Ohio.