Thousands of sermons on this most familiar passage have been preached. We know it well. Linus quotes it in Charlie Brown’s Christmas special.
Read Luke 2:1-20.
Jesus entered life in the shadow of a “No Vacancy” sign and not much has changed in our world. We often deride the unnamed innkeeper. Our culture is continually trying to crowd out Jesus. Barclay says, “That there was no room in the inn was symbolic of what was to happen to Jesus. The only place where there was room for him was on a cross. He sought an entry to the over-crowded hearts of men; he could not find it; and still his search—and his rejection—goes on.”
I. There was “no vacancy” due to familiarity.
Mark 6:1-6. Rejection by those who were too familiar with him. Even his own family didn’t believe. Familiarity breeds contempt.
We cannot become too familiar with Jesus. This story has become very familiar. Europe and North America are now mission fields.
II. There was “no vacancy” due to possessions.
Matthew 19:16. Christmas rush. The shepherds showed us what the Christmas should be.
We are to run to Jesus with faith and expectation.
III. There was “no vacancy” due to activities.
Matthew 8:21-22. We make everything a priority over Jesus: work, sports, leisure, etc.
Mary quietly meditated on these things. We should do likewise.
IV. There was “no vacancy” due to family.
Matthew 10:37. Family is important, but Christ needs to be first.
Conclusion
Is there room for the Lord?
