AT CHRISTMAS we read the Bible passages about the birth of Jesus.

In Luke’s version we read that ‘there was no room’ at the inn, and so Jesus was born in a manger in Bethlehem, rather than a fancy delivery suite at Airedale Hospital, or the First Century equivalent.

As I was reading this recently, it got me thinking about those for whom there is no room today.

In Keighley next January and March two local churches are hosting Inn Churches, providing hot meals and overnight accommodation for homeless people.

This project finds permanent accommodation for those who have found themselves with nowhere to go, showing the love of God in action. So in a real sense by helping through volunteering or donating supplies or money we are providing room at the ‘inn’.

This is a wonderful opportunity, and yet at Christmas time there is more for us to consider.

Will we make ‘room’ to spend with God this Christmas time, or will we let all the cooking, presents, and festive TV schedule take all our time instead?

Christmas is all about Jesus Christ, but is that the kind of Christmas that we are planning this year?

A few years ago Dogs Trust stated: “a dog is for life, not just for Christmas”.

Perhaps we can say that Jesus isn’t just for Christmas either, he’s for life. He gives us life, life in all its fullness, for us to enjoy and share with others.

Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth and the life” – let us seek to make room for Jesus and the life that he gives us this Christmas and beyond.