1. The first Christmas was a time of many complications and frustrations. (vv. 1-5)

--There was spiritual confusion. (v. 1)

--There was government oppression. (v. 2-3)

--There were travel complications. (vv. 3-4)

--There were difficult accommodations. 
(v. 7)

2. The first Christmas was marked by ignorance at best and rejection at worst. (v. 7)

--The innkeeper was not expecting the Messiah.

--The innkeeper did not recognize Jesus.

--Perhaps the innkeeper did not want Jesus

3. We must make room for Jesus. (v. 7)

4. We must "leave the light on" so that others can open the door to Jesus.