Baby Jesus is Born, Luke 2:6-7

Expectant parents wait excitedly for their child to be born--preparing for nine months for the arrival of their precious one. Today, we buy all the things we think the baby will need for everything that may happen. Our friends and families are excited, too, and help us prepare for the big day. We don’t know when the baby will come, but we have to be ready any time.

In Luke 2:6-7, there was a totally different story going on.

“So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

Joseph and Mary were waiting for the Savior of the world to be born. They had both been visited by angels who told them of the importance of the baby Mary was carrying. Imagine the excitement in heaven as the heavenly hosts awaited this birth. The difference between then and now…these parents weren’t at home with all the things needed for a baby. They were in Bethlehem with nowhere to go, so they went to a place where the animals live. They laid Jesus in a manger, wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and rejoiced.

A humble beginning of a humble life of always putting others first and caring for those in need. Throughout Jesus’ life on earth, He showed God’s love to all and knew that He would one day sacrifice His life so we can live eternally in heaven. From Jesus’ birth to His death, He knew the most loving gift He could give was to tell others about God and lead them to eternity. Without Jesus we would not have the gift of eternal life.

It's easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, but we can choose to keep our focus on the example Jesus’ life provides for us. We can find true joy, humility, and gratitude in remembering all of the blessings we receive, starting with a baby in a manger.

Wanda P.