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Simple
but True
What an inauspicious beginning to the greatest story ever told! These two verses are amazing to me. The simplicity with which the birth of Christ is told in the Scriptures. Those of you who have borne children know that “she gave birth” is more than just three tiny words – it’s the change of everything you knew before and everything you’ll do after. How miraculous that God the Son entered this world as a tiny child, a baby wrapped up tight in cloths and gently placed in manger. I am overwhelmed at the picture of this event. But you know what? It had to be that way. Jesus had to come to us as one of us. He had to experience life at its most simple because that’s how the majority of us live. And so, his birth was the beginning of a life that spread a message so simple, so true. As we consider the Advent we can find many truths in this simple story. First, let’s look at the travel. Mary and Joseph had to go to Bethlehem to be taxed. That was the law and they had to follow it. The difficulty was that Mary was very “great with child.” And she had to ride on a donkey – not the smoothest mode of transport. So there they were on a dusty road headed to a small town with no reservation at the Holiday Inn. Simply doing what needed to be done with no complaint. Now, look at us today. Many of us will be traveling this holiday season. We’ll load up the gaily wrapped packages, the kids, the luggage and head off for family or friends in another place. We’ll climb into cars or on planes and likely be annoyed by all the others doing the same. We’ll fuss because of traffic or tight spaces. But I urge you, as you travel this year, remember Mary. Simply riding on the donkey with her betrothed by her side. Undoubtedly she was uncomfortable – what woman isn’t at nine months? But we have no record that she complained or fussed. This year, how about focusing on the friends and family we’ll share our holiday with and the abundance we have to give to those we hold dear. How about recognizing the truth – this is the season for celebration not complaining? Yes, it’s simple – Jesus is the reason for the Season. But it’s true and when we focus on that, the little inconveniences and annoyances will seem far less important. I’ve found that most of the joy in the holidays comes in the eyes of children. Now that I have a 9 month old crawling around my house looking at the lights on the trees and playing with the ribbons on the packages that’s even more true then before. So think about this baby born on Christmas. Imagine that first cry heard by the sheep and cattle. See Mary gently wiping his face and body. See the tears in Joseph’s eyes as he holds his son. Look at the peaceful face of the sleeping child. And then realize those closed eyes saw the earth created. Those tiny curled hands will be stretched out and bear the nails for our sin. Those feet will walk the road to Calvary. And that tiny sweet mouth sucking will say “Father, forgive them.” That baby in the manger isn’t going to stay there. He’ll grow and play and then he’ll leave his home and fulfill his purpose. He’ll choose disciples and teach the crowds. He’ll heal the sick and cleanse the temple. He will touch those who hurt and love those who need it most. And He will die. He will die for you and for me. That tiny precious baby isn’t just Mary’s son – He is the Son of God, the Messiah, our Savior. Oh, a little baby – with basic, simple needs – will save the world. That’s the truth of Christmas. So, this holiday season, what will you be focused on? The gifts, the parties, the food, family, and cheer? These are all wonderful blessings God gives us to enjoy. But take a moment each day and stop. Read that passage in Luke 2 and see the beauty in the simplicity of Christ’s entrance into our world. And then while you look on the face of the sleeping Child say a prayer of thanks for His sacrifice. Celebrate the season for we have reason for cheer. But look past to the manger to the cross and know the real reason for our joy is not merely the babe in stable but the King on His throne!!
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