One of the greatest mysteries of the Christmas story is surrounding the humble birth of Jesus. Why would God choose to have his son born in such humble poor surroundings when He could have chosen to have Him born into wealth?
The answer is simple. God wanted us to be able to identify with Jesus. Had the Savior come to humanity in the manner of most kings, people would have had a more difficult time in relating to him.
God chose to have his Son born in a stable, surrounded by simple farm animals. Even though he was born into humble circumstances, three Kings came to honor him, bringing Him gifts of frankincense and myrrh. Wise men came to honor him as well, knowing that he was sent by God.
So what message does the humble birth of Jesus bring to humanity?
-Greatness has little to do with wealth. Some of the greatest people the world has ever known have been poor. Look at Mother Teresa. She was poor, yet her name is a household word because of the way she was willing to give of herself. If you look for greatness within a dollar sign, that greatness will be short-lived at best.
-Jesus was sent her to save the world, regardless of how rich or poor. He was sent to save the shepherds just as he was sent to save the three kings who visited him. He was sent to save the man sitting in a prison cell just as he was sent to save the President of the United States. He was sent to save the sinner, regardless of his stature in life.
The humble birth of Jesus Christ is a simple reflection of what matters this Christmas. It is about more than tinsel, Christmas lights, and gifts. It is about the greatest love that mankind has ever seen, lying in a bed of straw as kings bowed before Him in praise. It is about that same love that is available to everyone who is willing to open their hearts and let the dear Savior in.
*This is the second in a series of articles titled "The Spirit of Christmas".
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