Advent Readings Day 29

Reading: Luke 2:1 – 7

“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 guest room available for them.” Luke 2: 6 – 7

I never get tired of reading the story of Jesus’ birth.  The sights, sounds, smells – it all draws me in to consider the humility of Our King’s birth.  It leads me deep into contemplation as I consider why He chose to do it this way and it leads me into reflection as I wonder about the various implications for us to have a Suffering Servant as our Master and King who leads us to follow His example.

This morning we will rise and engage in our family rituals. There won’t be gifts under the tree, because we reserve that gift giving for birthdays.   We’ll have a simple Christmas morning complete with a Baked Oatmeal cake with a candle to celebrate Jesus’ birthday and a reading of this passage from Luke 2.  Simple. Quiet.  Peaceful.  Somewhat ordinary, yet fully extraordinary.

Let’s face it, any time we read this passage, we are caught up into the most extraordinary of events.  Total humility of a feed trough yet shepherds who hear the news and come running.  No room for the new king yet the angels declare His arrival.   King of Kings and Suffering Servant.  Lord of Lords and Humble One.  Philosopher kings willing to travel thousands of miles to bow in worship before a young child.

Today as you spend time together, take some time to read The Christmas Story.  Don’t read it like it is the 500th time you’ve read it, but rather be caught up in the ordinariness and the extraordinariness of it all.  And as you reflect, may Jesus meet you and challenge you to live for Him afresh and anew.

Merry Christmas!