Devotionals (12/11)

Read: Luke 2:6-7

“What can we do?”

Ever asked that question while observing some wrong or unfairness? It’s out of our control. How can we really help? Sometimes the world’s problems do feel too big for our actions to have any real consequence.

When travel-weary Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem during the big census, they likely encountered a similar attitude among Bethlehem residents who told them, either in words or actions, that they didn’t have space for any more guests.

“Everyone is back in town for the census,” they must have said. “So sorry; we wish we could help!”

The census had transformed quiet Bethlehem into a travelers’ hotspot.

Innkeepers and homeowners had filled every extra space to put a bed. And besides, Mary appeared to be very pregnant, perhaps ready to give birth, and her condition would bring its own complications.

But this tired couple clearly couldn’t spend the night out in the cold. Someone finally stepped forward. We can do something. Maybe they can take a little corner back where the animals sleep. We can clean up that extra manger if the baby comes.

Surely the innkeeper didn’t recognize the significance of the moment. The Son of God would grow up never having a home of His own. He would continue to depend on the kindness of people who saw a need and said, “It won’t be much, but we can do something.”