The Birth of Jesus

Lk. 2

It is amazing how God orchestrated the events of Jesus' birth. In this text, the first detail has to do with the Roman emperor issuing a decree what all the world should be registered. All the way from Rome came the impetus to move Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem where Jesus had to be born to fulfill prophecy.

The next detail was that Jesus would be born in humble circumstances. Mary's time came, and Jesus was born in a stable in a manger. Pretty humble!  Why? Because there was no room for them in the inn. No room! Sadly, this parallels the heart condition of most man down through the course of time--no room for the greatest gift man could ever receive. 

The the angels came to shepherds out in the fields tending to their flocks. Shepherds, not kings. The glory of the Lord surrounded them, and they were afraid, and rightly so. Their message stirred within the shepherd's heart the desire to go and see. And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.  And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." The angels concluded their announcement with, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!" The text says the shepherds went with haste to see the baby. No delay here! Their hearts were eager!

Then Matt. 2 tells of wise men coming from the east searching for the newly-born king. After stopping in Jerusalem, they met Herod and heard his request to bring back news of  the king. There they also learned of Bethlehem. They continued on their long journey following the star, a star placed specifically by God, until it rested over the place where Jesus was. When they saw the baby, they fell down and worshiped offering Him treasures fit for a king. God used them a dream to send the home another way [so sorry Herod!]. 

Just like in the birth of Jesus, God orchestrates the details of our lives. What an amazing God we serve!

Father,

Thank You for Jesus, for every small detail of His birth. Thank You for orchestrating my life as well. Help me to live obediently within the circumstances that You have put me in.

In Jesus name,\

Amen