No Room At The Inn

These words resonate deeply as they recount the humble beginnings of Jesus’ earthly life. As we reflect on this passage, I’m reminded of my experience during a business trip. While minor by comparison, it sheds light on the profound significance of that night in Bethlehem.

My Trip to Kokomo

I flew from San Jose, California, to Kokomo, Indiana, on a Sunday afternoon. I was heading to begin a consulting assignment at Delco Electronics. After a layover en route, I arrived at Indianapolis International Airport in the early evening. With eagerness, I picked up my rental car and drove the 54 miles to my Kokomo hotel, eagerly anticipating a chance to crash.

Imagine my shock when I learned the hotel couldn’t find my reservation and was fully booked! Fortunately, the clerk diligently found me a vacancy at a nearby hotel, but my predicament seemed trivial compared to the challenges faced by Joseph and Mary.

The Trip to Bethlehem

Traveling in those times was not only difficult but also loaded with danger. Road conditions were often treacherous, and travelers faced threats from robbers lurking along the highways. An “inn” back then was simply a place to rest, lacking modern amenities like indoor plumbing, cable TV, and high-speed internet. The journey to Bethlehem, especially for a pregnant Mary, would have taken several days – potentially six or seven – making the experience even more challenging.

Consider this: if Mary had wished to fly instead of walk, she would have faced strict airline policies regarding pregnant travelers. Most airlines require a letter from a doctor for women traveling late in their pregnancy. In many ways, the journey Mary undertook was no different from what a woman might encounter today.

So why were Mary and Joseph turned away? Perhaps the inn was indeed complete, as other descendants of David flocked to Bethlehem for the census. The innkeeper may not have recognized Joseph, who hailed from Nazareth, or perhaps he deemed the couple too poor to afford a room. In a busy inn, the innkeeper likely did not want to inconvenience other guests, especially with a very pregnant woman. Ultimately, we know only that there was no room for them.

Is there Room for Jesus?

As we contemplate this emotional moment, we must ask ourselves, “Is there room in our hearts for Jesus?” The narrative of Luke 2:7 reminds us of the significance behind the seemingly simple details of the Christmas story. God could have arranged for a comfortable room or even a palace for the birth of His Son, yet the absence of space was intentional. It was a divine plan that speaks to our hearts today.

The world often feels crowded, filled with distractions and priorities that can leave little room for the sacred. A touching story illustrates this beautifully: during a church Christmas play, a little boy playing the innkeeper found himself moved by the sight of Mary and Joseph at the door. Instead of delivering his line, “There is no room left in the inn,” he exclaimed, “but you can share my room.” While some adults felt the play was disrupted, others recognized the beauty of his spontaneous gesture. The boy later explained, “I just couldn’t send Jesus away. I had to find a place for Jesus.”

In a world that often seems to have no space for Him, we have the power to change that narrative. As we celebrate His birth, may we open our hearts and lives to welcome Him in. Let us do so just as that little boy did in his own innocent way.

Prayer to Accept Jesus

Heavenly Father,

I come to You with an open heart, acknowledging my need for Your love and grace. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, who died for my sins and rose again to give me new life. I confess my sins and ask for Your forgiveness.

Today, I accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior, trusting Him to guide my life. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and help me to walk in Your ways. Thank You for Your unconditional love and for the gift of salvation.

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

My Wish to You

Dear Friends

I want to take a moment to wish you a Merry Christmas! May this beautiful season be filled with love, joy, and cherished moments with family and friends. May your hearts be light and your homes be warm with laughter and togetherness.

Embrace the spirit of giving and the joy of the season, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas filled with peace, happiness, and the love of those you hold dear.

Warmest wishes

Gerardo