While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 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 2:6-7 (NIV)
Traveling to Bethlehem during the time of Jesus' birth is like trying to find a place to stay in popular vacation hot spots during the peak season. Everyone was on the move due to the census decreed by Caesar Augustus, which required people to return to their ancestral towns to be registered. Just as popular vacation destinations become inundated with tourists seeking a getaway, Bethlehem, the city of David, saw an influx of people like Joseph, who belonged to the house and line of David.
With so many people flocking to the town, it quickly became apparent that accommodation was scarce. Much like the bustling peak seasons in popular vacation spots, where "No Vacancy" neon signs are lit, Bethlehem was bursting at the seams with visitors. Every inn was packed, and every guest room was occupied. Despite Mary being heavily pregnant, they found no room to rest.
But there is another kind of “No Vacancy,” a spiritual one. Jesus encountered this throughout His ministry. Despite the people's longing for the Messiah, many hearts and minds were closed off, the metaphorical neon sign lit. Though empty spaces were within their lives, they weren't open to receiving Him.
Even though no physical guest room was available at His birth, a humble and unexpected place became the setting for the fulfillment of prophecy—a manger, symbolizing His arrival to the lowly, the despised, and the downtrodden. His birth in such a humble setting was no coincidence—it underscored His mission to bring hope and salvation to those who were often overlooked and marginalized.
Jesus continues to seek out the vacant spaces in our hearts still today. In a world often filled with distractions and closed doors, recognizing our spiritual emptiness can be the first step to welcoming Him in. Just as inns were filled in Bethlehem, our lives can become cluttered with the noise of daily concerns. Yet, amidst it all, Jesus stands ready to enter, bringing peace and fulfillment to those who invite Him in.
Like the Motel 6 ad from the 1980s promises to "leave the light on for you," Jesus offers a beacon of hope to those who feel lost and empty. Despite the "No Vacancy" signs in our lives, He is always there, ready to enter and bring light to our darkness. By recognizing our spiritual vacancy, we can turn on the light and welcome Him in, knowing He will never turn us away.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who came to bring light to our darkness. We confess that our lives can become cluttered with distractions and closed doors, leaving no room for Your presence. Help us recognize the empty spaces in our hearts and welcome Jesus in. May we always remember that He stands ready to bring peace and fulfillment to those who invite Him in. Just as You provided a humble manger for His birth, provide a place in our hearts for Him to dwell. Guide us to turn on the light of faith, knowing that You will never turn us away. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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