“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 cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn” Luke 2:6-7, NKJV.
Joseph and Mary had been on this incredible journey for many months, and now this is how it ends. Jesus the Christ, God’s only begotten Son, and their firstborn, being born in a manger.
Even as a man, I find myself getting very emotional as I consider a manger wasn’t the cleanest place. It is a trough or feeder for animals. At the French root of the word, manger means “to eat.” The animals would come to this open box to eat and be satisfied.
Jesus came to earth humble with no crown. Holy, but became dirty. Rich but became poor. Innocent but born to be found guilty. The Lord of all came with nothing to show that he came only for us. The Bread of Life came in a manger, and now any man who hunger and thirsts can come to eat and be satisfied. Right in the middle of our sin, God gave us the greatest gift. May you enjoy who you have in your life, and your celebration and joy stand in God giving Jesus, His greatest gift to you this Christmas.
Prayer: Father, I honor and praise You. Thank you, Jesus, for being my greatest gift. No money can buy what you’ve done for me. The manger shows you met me in my sin. You met me where I was, and no one can ever take that away from me. Help me to remember what you did for me and be exceedingly thankful. Hallelujah! In Jesus’ name’, Amen!
Study: John 6:35 & 53-55, Philippians 2:6-8
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