Make Room For Jesus

By Rev Goh Yong Kuang

The Bible tells how the birth of Jesus took place. Mary and Joseph travelled to their ancestral town in Bethlehem for the census (Luke 2:1-5). When they arrived, Mary was about to give birth. They tried to search for a place to settle down for the night but there was no room left in the inn (Luke 2:7).

The old Kandang Kerbau Hospital (KKH) has been the birthplace of over 1.2 million Singaporeans. “Kandang Kerbau” is a Malay word for "Buffalo Pens." The hospital was named as such because of its location - a buffalo pen owned by the colonial government's Department of Transport was believed to have been located there. Imagine there’s no room left, and one has to give birth literally in a buffalo pen. Imagine being born in a buffalo pen! 

Finally, they found a stable nearby where the animals were kept. It was there Mary gave birth to Jesus, wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger (Luke 2:7, ESV).

Every Christmas is a reminder for us to make room for Jesus. After more than 2,000 years, there are yet many who have no room for Jesus. Although they join in the festivities of the Christmas season, they keep Him out of their lives. They don’t want Jesus to “interfere” in their affairs. They don’t want Jesus to tell them what to do or how to live. 

But blessed are those who have room for Jesus. He will come into any life that has room for Him, no matter the condition. The Bible calls Jesus the Prince of Peace, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God. As we open our hearts to Jesus and make room for Him – we will experience the hope and peace that He brings.

Indeed, there’s no better time than this Christmas to rededicate your life to Him or to receive Him as your Saviour! 

Into my heart, into my heart,

Come into my heart, Lord Jesus;

Come in today, come in to stay;

Come into my heart, Lord Jesus.

~ Harry D. Clarke (1888–1957) ~