No room.
It was a problem the day Jesus was born, and it’s a problem, still. Even in the midst of a crazy 2020–though one would think this is the year we’d make place for Jesus, if ever we did. Clearly, we need Him desperately.
When we read the Christmas story, it’s easy to shake our heads and wonder how anyone could turn away Mary and Joseph as they sought a place to bring Jesus into the world, but in the next heartbeat, we busy ourselves making room for shopping, wrapping, and decorating.
Yes, many of us have scaled down this year. Still, with all the distractions in our world, it’s easy to neglect to make space for Jesus. We skip church. Forget to read our Bible. Pray on the run. If at all.
So, I must pause long enough to ask myself the hard question: Have I neglected to make room for the one thing–the one person–who really counts? Who is my true source of joy, peace, forgiveness. Hope.
If I’m not careful, Christmas can rob me of Christ.
[bctt tweet=”Don’t let the busyness of Christmas rob you of the blessing of Christ.” username=”donnajonesspeak”]Please don’t get me wrong, I love Christmas. I love the lights. The gifts. The decorations. The traditions. We need the joy of Christmas now, more than ever!
I’m certain joy makes Jesus smile.
But I also know that nothing brings joy like remembering Jesus. Or talking to Jesus. Or thanking Jesus. Or worshipping Jesus.
Without Jesus my joy is incomplete. Without Jesus, I am incomplete.
And so, this Christmas season I resolve to make room for Jesus in my own little corner of the world. I choose to welcome Him into my life. My schedule. My day. My heart.
I flat-out refuse to say, “there is no room for Jesus here”.
Will you resolve to make space for Jesus in your busy life, too?
If so, take a moment, grab your Bible, and read Luke 2:1-21, slowly. Allow yourself to be transported back to the day God became flesh and dwelt among us.
Choose to make room for Jesus every day this week. Whisper this prayer; “Jesus, I’ll make room for you.” Let your heart rest, and let your soul rejoice with this simple truth: God is with you.
Here are a few scripture suggestions to help you make room for Jesus:
As you celebrate Christmas this week, choose to make room for Christ.
God with us.
God with you.
Merry Christmas!
“And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” Luke 2:17
You are loved,
Donna
PS. If you’re looking for a meaningful last minute Christmas gift idea, why not buy a copy of Seek? It’s perfect if you want to learn more about your faith, or know someone who needs a little hope this year. It could very well be the best gift you give!
PSS. I’ve been posting two minute “25 Days of Blessing” videos on Instagram, where each day we explore one way to be a blessing in this world. You can join in and watch on Instagram @donnaajones.