Luke 2:1-7

 

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 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 room for them in the inn.

 

Practical Lessons Derived from Luke 2:1–7

 

Verses 1, 2

 

“A decree was issued by Caesar Augustus.” When the emperor sent out this order, little did he realize God was using this decree for the realization of His own purpose with respect to the world. What a comforting passage is Rom. 8:28! Cf. Eph. 1:11.

 

Verses 4, 5

 

“So … Joseph too went up … to be registered with Mary.” The One who was going to say, “What is due to Caesar render to Caesar, and what is due to God render to God” had not yet come into the world from Mary’s womb, yet was already being obeyed. Joseph and Mary never thought of refusing to obey the emperor in a matter not contrary to the will of God.

 

Verse 7

 

“There was no room for them in the inn.” This was not because the innkeeper was cruel or inhospitable, but because the inn was already overcrowded. So, also, there are hearts which never welcome Jesus; not because they hate Him but simply because these hearts are already so overcrowded with thoughts of riches, honor, prestige, pleasures, business affairs, etc., they have no room for Jesus, no time to reflect on His will, no desire to go out of their way to do His pleasure.

 

 In this connection see the beautiful hymn by Emily E. S. Elliott, “Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne,” ending with the stirring chorus,

 

O come to my heart, Lord Jesus!

There is room in my heart for thee.

Is there room in your heart for Jesus?

 

 How can we be sure He does not get crowded out of our lives?

 

 Are there some specific steps you can take each day to make more time for Jesus?