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 2:6-7 KJV
After Mary and Joseph arrive at Bethlehem, the hometown of Joseph’s ancestor, King David, Mary goes into labor, giving birth to our Savior. The couple were there in compliance with a Roman order for a census of the entire empire. Christ’s birth in Bethlehem fulfilled prophecy concerning the Messiah. Micha 5:2 gives the prophecy saying, “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, being small among the clans of Judah, out of you one will come out to me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings out are from of old, from ancient times. WEB”
The influx of travelers for the census crowded the small community. It is easy to imagine the ancestral home of King David, with his many descendants, overflowing with families seeking shelter at that time. And so, it is likely the unusual circumstances is the cause of there being no room for them in the inn.
I Am Gentle and Humble
That our Savior’s birth took place in a barn is suitable to his humble nature and purpose. Jesus’ life fulfilled the will of God to pay the price for our sins. Jesus acknowledges his life of service in Luke 22:27 saying, “For who is greater, one who sits at the table, or one who serves? Isn’t it he who sits at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. WEB” Again, Jesus describes the manner of his leadership. In Matthew 11:29 he says, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. NIV”
Therefore, it is fitting that there was no room for them in the inn. Jesus came to call lowly sinners to repentance and to glorify God. The Lord came to demonstrate how to love, serve, and sacrifice. Further, it is suitable to his nature that our Lord was laid in a manger upon his birth. After all, he is the lamb of God, sacrificed for the forgiveness of our sins.
The Good Shepherd
Even more, as the good shepherd, the infant Christ is at home among the livestock and many well wishers. Scripture details Jesus’ humble nature and willingness to sacrifice in the service of our heavenly Father. As the Lord said in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. WEB” This too is fulfillment of prophecy from Isaiah 40:11.
For the young family, there was no room for them in the inn. But in awe of the spectacle of his birth, worldly rulers trembled, wise men brought gifts, and local shepherds came to worship the newborn king. As it says in Luke 2:14, ““Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the majesty of the kingdom heralded by the birth of Christ. Thank you for the example set by his life. Guide me with wisdom to do your will. Give us joy as we celebrate the birth of your Son. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Immanuel
