No Vacancy

In the story of Jesus’ birth, I think the overriding emotion is one of joy:

>  the joy of prophecy fulfilled;

>  Mary and Joseph’s joy after a safe journey and a successful delivery;

>  the joy of angels proclaiming the Good News;

>  the shepherd’s joy after seeing the Messiah for themselves.

However, there is one element of this narrative that causes me sadness. When Mary and Joseph wearily trudged into their destination and sought accommodations, they were told:

>  “We’re full up!”

>  “Can’t you read the sign on the door?”

>  “You mean you didn’t make a reservation?”

>  “Try the Motel 6 down the street.”

I hang my head in shame not just because of the lack of hospitality in first-century Bethlehem, but because I also am guilty at times of letting my busyness, my problems, and my priorities relegate Jesus to the shed out back.

Thus, it dawned on me there should be a “No Vacancy” sign on my heart and mind for anything that would keep Jesus off the throne of my life.