By Lisa Wilmore
Greetings, My Dear Friends,
My husband and I were traveling to watch the Mangham High School football game in New Orleans, Louisiana, and we decided to ride the charter bus. Interestingly, we arrived later than the other riders, assuming there would still be a way for us to sit together. However, when we stepped onto the bus, there were no available seats side by side. Hoping simply to share the ride together, I politely asked if someone would be willing to change seats so that my husband and I could sit next to each other. Unfortunately, no one moved. I asked one of my former students, someone I knew and believed might have compassion and move to another seat, but to no avail. No one was willing to give up their seat. In that quiet, still moment, the Lord stirred my heart with a deeper understanding that birthed this message.
Clearly, I caught a glimpse of what Mary and Joseph may have felt as they arrived in Bethlehem. Similarly, they came later, weary from travel and full of hope, only to find doors closed and rooms already occupied. Scripture says, “And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn” (Luke 2:7, NKJV). It was not an intentional rejection; rather, places to momentarily reside were simply already full. Yet, that fullness left no space for the Savior of the world.
Consequently, this Christmas story challenges us to examine our own hearts. Just like the bus riders, we may not intend harm; nonetheless, we simply may not want to move. In reality, our lives may become crowded with schedules, traditions, and personal comforts that hinder our willingness to make room for others as well as Jesus. The gospel of John reminds us, “He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him” (John 1:11, NKJV). Here, the danger is not hostility toward Christ, but individuals who do not see the need to make room for a new born Baby, Jesus.
Nevertheless, Jesus still invites us. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock” (Revelation 3:20, NKJV). Therefore, making room for Jesus means being willing to shift our priorities, surrender our place, and welcome Him fully. This Christmas, we must not be so overwhelmed with giving and receiving and overlook the greatest Gift of all.
For my husband and me, it may be okay not to make room, but for Jesus, it is essential that we make room.
Merry Christmas! Remember, Jesus is the reason for the season. “Always make room for Jesus.”
Jesus Saves!
