As we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus, let’s take a step back and explore the story of Christ's birth in Bethlehem. From the travel to the baby in the Nativity manger, there are important lessons in the story of Christ that ready us for the celebration.

Joseph and the pregnant Mary, shortly after their marriage, had to depart Nazareth for Bethlehem. Joseph was required to go to that particular place (the location of his family) to report for the census. Mary insisted on going along; she wanted to be close to Joseph in case the baby came. Mary and Joseph were not wealthy, so they had only one animal for transportation; Mary rode it, while Joseph walked alongside. They camped their first night and stayed at an inn in Jericho on the second night of their journey. They arrived in Bethlehem and this is when they find out (infamously!) that “there is no room at the inn.” Joseph’s relatives cannot accommodate them. The innkeeper in town, however, had stables (used for the animals of traveling caravans that pass through) that had been recently cleaned. Mary and Joseph were pleased to have someplace to rest after days of travel. The stables were sparse with several mangers, but they were comfortable enough.

After settling into the stable, Mary and Joseph realized it was time for the baby to come. Jesus was born and Mary swaddled him and placed him in the Nativity manger (a trough for animal food). Meanwhile. there were shepherds living in the fields nearby and an angel appeared to them, announcing the birth of Jesus. The shepherds found him and then spread the word to others.

About 1-2 years later, three kings (also known as three wise men or magi) also visited Jesus after journeying hundreds or thousands of miles. They saw a star that told them a saviour had been born. When they reached Jesus, they bore three gifts that each symbolized something significant: gold for a king, incense for God, and myrrh, used to anoint the dead. Just as the shepherds spreading the word was so important, the worship of the three kings provided legitimacy to the immensity of Jesus’ birth and his coming as a saviour. There are many other details of the Christmas story that are beyond the scope of this post, but there are several elements upon which we should reflect as we prepare for Christmas. Mary and Joseph’s acceptance of their limited transport and simple space reminds us to be grateful. Jesus’ birth in a stable and Nativity manger reminds us that the greatest gifts have no monetary value. The shepherds’ faith in the angels’ message is a wonderful example of faith. And the wise men’s dutiful worship is to be admired; if we are determined, we will also find and see God.

Read and re-read the story of Christ’s birth this holiday season - it will warm and ready your heart for the impending celebration.

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