Birth of Christ - Conclusion

 It is at this point that the account adds a famous detail: "She bound him with cloth bands and laid him in a manger." (Luke 2:7) Nativity plays, paintings, and scenes around the world sentimentalize this setting. Consider, though, the reality. a manger is a feeding trough, a bin in which farm animals eat. Remember the family was lodging in a stable, hardly a place to be noted for good air or hygiene-then or now. Really, what parents choose such a spot for childbirth if there were any other options? Most parents want the best for their children. How much more so did Mary and Joseph want the best for the Son of God!

However, they did not let their limitations imbitter them; they simply did the best they could with what they had. Notice, for instance that Mary herself cared for the infant, wrapping his up snugly in cloth bands, then laying him carefully in the manger to sleep, ensuring that he would be warm and safe. Mary was not about to let anxiety over her present circumstances distract her from providing the best that she could. She and Joseph both knew, too, that caring spiritually for this child would be the most important thing they could do for him. (Read Deuteronomy 6:6-8) Today, wise parents cultivate similar priorities as they bring their children up in this spiritually impoverished world. 

Next time: Chapter Eighteen/She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart" - A Visit Brings Encouragement

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