12 "This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
--Luke 2:8-12
As I've thought about it this season, I find it fascinating (as do most who accept the story) that God would choose such an ignominious entrance into this world. To be born in a stable is not what you might expect for a person who is of such kingly stature, though dying on a cross isn't the normal ending for kings either, especially one who be heralded as the "king of kings."
Those familiar with this story will recall that the reason Mary gave birth in a manger was because she and Joseph had come to Bethlehem as a result of a government edict. Rome was taking a census and everyone had to return to their town of origin to be registered. The net result was overcrowding. There was not an extensive tourism industry, so available rooms for rent were undoubtedly limited. People made do as they were able and a nine-month-pregnant mother named Mary had few options.
When the angel appeared to the shepherds, this radiant being gave them a sign: you will see a baby wrapped in cloths lying in a manger. This must have struck them as strange. A manger is a trough where you put feed for cattle or mules to eat from. It didn't make sense. And yet... when a host of angels immediately appeared and began praising God, the shepherds ran into town and began looking for the one the angel spoke of.
Of all these things much more can be said.
* * * * *
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
--Isaiah 9:6
Merry Christmas!
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