December 12, 2020
Luke 2:1-7—Mary
“And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7
It is hard to read the verses from Luke 2:1-7 and not think about my own experience of having a baby. My perception of the birth of Jesus was always one of a serene and tranquil experience. I realize now that was definitely a misconception. So little is said about the actual birth besides, “And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.”
When I think back to the night that I was in labor, I remember the fear and anxiety I felt. I had no idea of what to expect, or if my baby and I would be alright—and we were in a state of the art hospital that was sterile and full of life-saving equipment should the unthinkable occur! Each Christmas since that night I have marveled upon the conditions that Mary experienced during this same very human experience… the dirty animal stall surrounded by a cacophony of creatures, no one there but her and Joseph, and the sheer pain of the experience all while being very young and in a foreign city.
Prayer: Lord we are so thankful that you came to this earth, fully human, including your birth. Thank you for the courage and immense faith Mary displayed walking through God’s plan and reminding us that every single birth is a miracle. In the name of Christ we pray. Amen.
Strat Lake