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The Plan Unfolds

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 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 2:4–7)

For centuries, the Israelites had read the prophecies about God coming to free them. Many had memorized these passages and were eagerly waiting for the Messiah. But many expected a glamorous and mighty king who would conquer their oppressors and bring political freedom. As a result, they expected that, as God’s people, they would gain respect and power. They thought the Messiah would act like other powerful earthly kings.

But God’s plan was different. God came to earth as a defenseless baby in a smelly barn. His parents were humble, ordinary, faithful people. Angels declared his birth to grubby shepherds and foreign wise men, not to politicians or religious leaders.

Jesus didn’t come to add rules, hang out with religious people, or act like a normal king. He came to fulfill God’s law, hang out with sinners, and die and rise again to cover our sin with his righteousness and forgiveness. He came to help people who desperately needed his help. He came for the hurting, the fearful, the guilty. He came to make us whole, to teach us, to comfort us, and to make us his. He came for you and me! By his wounds, he heals us. By his death, he gives us life. By his word and Spirit, he transforms us to become like him.

Reflect on these questions after reading Luke 1–2.

• What were the circumstances surrounding Jesus’ birth? If you were God looking for a place for your own Son to be born on earth, would you have chosen this situation? Why or why not?
• What do you think the shepherds thought when they saw the angels? How does their response to the angel’s announcement serve as an example for us?
• What would you have thought about Jesus if you saw him as a baby?
• What did you learn in these verses about God’s plan?

Pray

Today’s prayer comes from Luke 1:38 and 2:31.

Father, nothing is impossible for you! Thank you for sending Jesus, who is your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations. I am your servant; may your word to me be fulfilled. Please transform me to be more like Jesus every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.