…and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.
She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger,because there was no room for them in the inn.
Luke 2:7 NIV
The Stable Few
When I think of the Nativity, I think of a man named Joseph, who wasn't technically the Father, choose a child over his disbelief.
I think of a young mother Mary who chose faith over ridicule and shame.
I think of two young people who risked everything for a child. Who were brave enough to face a long journey only to have a child in the most inconvenient of places.
I think of Shepherds who had a life changing experience; who got to see angels in all their glory singing what I am sure was an amazing song.
I think of Wise men who accepted the prediction in scriptures, followed a star and brought gifts to a baby they said was born King of the Jews.
The Inn Crowd
I think of a inn keeper who would not give up his own room or another for a pregnant woman.
I think of a man (Herod) so disturbed and threatened by this child that he would declare that all boys in Bethlehem under two be killed.
I think of all the people who mocked and hated this baby when he became a man. And the people who do this even still today.
I remember that when I put myself first, when I am unkind, or (insert ugly behavior here) that I might as well join the Inn crowd.
But...I remember why this baby came in the first place. This unique circumstance and that the beauty of the Nativity is the gift behind it:
NO MATTER whether I am with the Inn crowd or the Stable few,
His birth was a gift to humanity, to me:
I am forgiven.
I am loved anyway.
He came for me.
He is for me.
I will be with him for eternity.
I remember that a long time ago a baby made such a huge impact that the majority of the world celebrates His birthday...on this wonderful day called Christmas!
Adjust That Crown!
Jonna
