Luke 2:7 – 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. (KJV)

Although Scripture does not specifically mention him, the manager of the inn was responsible for turning Mary and Joseph away on the first Christmas morning. Have you ever wondered what type of person he was? For years, I pictured him as a mean, cold-hearted, and worldly sort of individual. Then one day, while reading through my Bible study lesson, I was challenged by the following question:

"What do Christians have in common with the Bethlehem innkeeper?"

Now I had to re-evaluate my judgment of the innkeeper's character. It is certainly feasible that he did not refuse Mary and Joseph, but sent them to the barn; it was just a simple case of "no room". My previous impression that he was not even concerned about a young mother about to give birth may have been quite wrong.

Yet in one way or another, I think that we can all relate to the innkeeper's story. Many times, we also shut God out in the cold without ever realizing it. We become so preoccupied with trivial matters; even as we celebrate the Lord's birth, He sometimes gets left out. Unfortunately for the innkeeper, he never knew that it was God's Son whom he turned away.

Christmas or not, it is business as usual for most of the world. Nevertheless, as for the innkeeper, this special day may come to those who are not seeking it. Hence, how can we, as believers, take this opportunity to share the glad tidings of our faith with others? Moreover, in what ways can we make more room for Jesus in our personal lives?

Prayer: Father, we thank You for the precious gift of Your Son Jesus. May we always have room for Him in our hearts so that others will see His love reflected in us. In Christ's holy name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Lori Ciccanti <dlalsina@mchsi.com>
Ocean View, Delaware, USA
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