The First Christmas

Christmas is almost here! In all the hustle and bustle of the season, I took time to spend a quiet moment reading in Luke chapter two, about the birth of Jesus.

What a humble beginning for the Savior. There were no rooms available for Mary and Joseph in the Inn. So, Mary gave birth in a stable. 

Then she wrapped Jesus in cloths and laid him in a manger.

The King of Kings lying in a manger that was meant to feed animals.

I’ve read that the manger was probably carved from stone. 

God sent His son to begin his life there, in that cold humble place.

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that 

will be for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.'" (Luke 2:8-11)

Those shepherds ... I wonder what they were doing while watching over their flocks.

It was nighttime. Did they take shifts? Were some sleeping?

All of a sudden, an angel appears and the glory of the Lord shone around them!

I can’t imagine it. Neither could they, that’s why they were terrified.

But the angel of the Lord said 3 things:

1. “Don't be afraid.”

2. “I bring you good news of great joy ... for all the people.”

3. “Today in the town of David, a Savior is born to you; he is Christ the Lord.”

I thought about how that applies to us today.

He says, “Don’t be afraid.” 

What are you facing today that makes you fear?

Is it the unknown future?

Whatever it is, he says, “Don’t be afraid.”

But how can I not be afraid? 

By remembering that “He brings good news of great joy!”

Jesus is the good news! The Savior. The answer to all our “What ifs?”

And just so you are sure, he says it’s good news for all people.” 

“Today a Savior is born to you; Christ the Lord.” 

After that I understand the heavenly hosts saying,

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests”

I pray for a Christmas for you, where you find peace in Jesus. That you will not be afraid, because you have a Savior, that wants to bring you joy.

Enjoy this season.

Blessings on you and yours!