Characters at the Cradle: The Birth of Jesus, God in Human Flesh

by David Chadwick

When Caesar Augustus gave a decree mandating everyone to be registered for taxes, Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem began. Remember as you read the Christmas story that there was not one aspect that was outside of God's control or plan. In fact, every moment was a part of his plan. The twists and turns, the ups and downs – all of them point to our great need for redemption through Jesus.

While in Bethlehem, the time came for Mary to give birth. Let's look at Luke 2:5-7, where God, through Jesus, entered the world. The main character of the entire story!

For being such a detail-oriented author, Luke does leave some mystery in these verses surrounding Jesus's actual birth. So many questions and so few answers! I can't help but wonder if Luke intentionally left some mystery around the birth of Jesus. Sometimes humans become fixated on understanding all of the details and lose sight of the wonder of the Savior. As we follow Jesus, we must embrace mystery, realizing that some things will only make sense in heaven.

While we don't know for sure what the exact context was of Joseph and Mary's wedding celebration, we know from Luke's account that Joseph was with Mary, caring for her during the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Determined to obey God to be her caring husband.

In verse 7, God in human flesh entered the world. Baby Jesus was born. In a stable. With straw.  Surrounded by animals who were probably quite smelly. They were the first invited guests for the actual birth.

Mary wrapped him in swaddling clothes, which, as a side note, was the same material used to wrap him up and lay him in the empty tomb following his crucifixion.

The King of kings and Lord of lords was born in a smelly stable, as there was no place in the inn. He came in humility, not splendor. Surroundings that were so meager and so humbling. The God of the universe led the way in a life that was opposed to the proud. Humility is the heart of God and the beginning point for eternal salvation.

As his followers, we, too, should choose humility. The Bible says that if we do, he will lift us up to a place of honor.