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Bethlehem was crowded. Lodging was unavailable as many had come to register for the census. Joseph and Mary took what was available—space in a stable, where Mary gave birth to the child Jesus.

“She wrapped him in strips of cloth and placed him in a manger, because there was no room in the inn” (Luke 2:7). No one was willing to give a pregnant woman a room at a time of her need.

Thirty-three years later, there was no place for Jesus. Out of envy the Sanhedrin brought Jesus to Pilate, demanding that He be killed. After examining Jesus, Pilate was convinced of His innocence and sought to release Jesus. He gave the mob a choice—he would release Jesus, an innocent man, or Barabbas, a criminal. Having no “room” for Jesus, the mob asked for Barabbas and demanded that Jesus be crucified.

As Pilate searched for a solution, he asked a question which is our question: “What shall I do, then, with Jesus?” (Matthew 27:22). Each of us must answer this question.

Do we turn Him away because we have no room for Him in our lives? Are we so busy with our own way to be bothered with Him? Unfortunately, far too many have no room for Jesus.

Or do we open our hearts for Him, allowing Him into our lives—not just as an occasional guest, but as one who lives within us day after day? With determination and devotion we worship and serve Him!

--Ralph Burris