Characters of the Christmas Story

As we count down the upcoming weeks leading to our Savior's birthday, I wanted to focus on each of those involved in the Christmas story. In keeping with Pastor Ken's sermons on the manger, I hope to give you a glimpse into the hearts and minds of those characters. I pray that you will love Jesus even more this holiday season, as you read His wonderful story.

Jesus

The Father God, along with legions of His holy angels, watched intently from Heaven as the anointed family made their way across the hills to Bethlehem, the town of David. The Sovereign Lord had orchestrated a census to be taken , causing Joseph to return to the town of his lineage. The journey was difficult, and Mary was great with Child. The Lord had blessed Mary, indeed, but He never promised the task at hand would be an easy one. In spite of her discomfort, she continued to thank Him quietly in her heart for choosing her.

As their journey took them closer to the town, the road became crowded with other travelers with the same destination. And when they finally reached Bethlehem, they barely had room enough to make their way to the Inn. To Joseph’s dismay, yet for the Lord’s glory, there was no room left for them there. The inn was full, so the weary family instead made their way to a nearby stable. The smell of the warm air, a combination of animals and straw, was very potent. Yet Mary and Joseph did not complain.

As all of heaven gazed upon Mary, the Father knew that the only way to redeem His children from their sins, was to send His very own Son into the world. The appointed time had now finally arrived for the unimaginable to occur. It was time for the baby to be born.

The angels rejoiced and the Father smiled, as young Mary gave birth to the Savior of the World. The Messiah, the very One who hung each star in the sky, was now wrapped in the flesh of a newborn baby. When Joseph looked into the face of baby Jesus, he wept with joy. And as Mary gazed at the wonder in her arms, she humbly whispered prayers of thanksgiving to the Most High God. Wrapping Him in strips of cloth, she gently placed the baby in a manger.

Lifting her head at the sound of running footsteps, Mary turned to see a wondrous sight. There standing at the opening to the stable, were some young shepherds, wide-eyed and out of breath. To her amazement, they fell to their knees at the edge of the manger, voicing praises and worshiping the Newborn King.

Like a spotlight shining from Heaven itself, a bright star hung suspended above the stable.

The angels danced.
The world changed.
And all of Heaven celebrated.

Happy birthday to You, Lord Jesus. Merry Christmas...

         Alison