HomeWord - Dec. 11, 2009
Away in a Palace?
This devotional was written by Jim Liebelt While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 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 2:6-7
Wouldn't you expect the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords to be born in a palace with luxuries all around? That makes sense, but wasn't the way the birth of Jesus took place.
Why lies He in such mean estate
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear: for sinners here,
The silent Word is pleading.
This, this is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing.
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.
(from What Child is This?)
Jesus, the Savior of the world, entered this world under the most humble circumstances. No pomp, no palace, just a barn. I'm confident that the God of the Universe could have arranged for at least one available room in the inn. But, He didn't. Have you ever wondered why? I have to believe it was done in keeping with the humility and gentleness that Jesus would demonstrate His entire life.
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30
In the Scriptures we never see Jesus forcing Himself upon others. Rather, we find a loving invitation to come and follow. The invitation is still open.
We celebrate Christmas, recognizing the gentle and humble nature of the Savior.
GOING DEEPER:
- What do the circumstances of Jesus' humble birth teach you about God?
- What other reasons might God have had in Jesus' humble birth?
- If Jesus had been born in a palace, would have made any difference to you? Why or why not?
FAMILY TIME:
In most areas, sometime around Christmas, you can find a church or other organization that hosts a "live" nativity scene. Take your family on an outing if such an opportunity exists. Alternatively, there are bound to be some nativity displays to be found in your area, even if they aren't "live." Visit one of these. Another alternative would be to gather around a crèche in your home. Once gathered, use the above content for a family discussion about the humble circumstances surrounding Jesus' birth.
Sign up here for Parenting Resources and other HomeWord publications.
