“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:1-7 KJV)
[Luke’s notes: This imperial tax decree was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria (v.2). Joseph went to Bethlehem because he was of the house and lineage of David (v.4).]
In December 1773, American colonists dumped tea into the Boston harbor in defiance of unfair taxation. This was the precursory event that started a revolution. Yet 237 years later, Americans submit to taxes without question as a normal course of life. Of course, we neither like nor enjoy paying them, yet we still do.
And we don’t have to return to the city of our family roots in order to comply. We simply mail a check or authorize the tax department to deduct them from a bank account. All our Christmas travels are unforced, personal choices. No donkey rides over rough, mountainous terrain. No camping out in dangerous, chilly, uncomfortable places. No worry about when or where a baby might be born. And no searching a crowded city for a place to rest or sleep.
When we compare our two circumstances — Joseph and Mary’s struggles and challenges with our more comfortable conveniences — one striking conclusion emerges: like the inn that had no place for them, we can easily exclude Christ from our lives and many people do.
Christ is the key to Christmas. He is the one who opens the door to peace and goodwill. He is the one who brings hope and cheer. He is the baby — born in a manger and died on a cross — who is Emmanuel. Being satisfied with Christ — despite his humble birth and cruel death — enables us to face uncertain days with joy and hope.
Dear Father, thank you for making room in your plans for Christ to come. Enable us to make room in our lives to receive him and live for him so that others will receive him too. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today and prepare a place for Christ in your Christmas,