Reading: Luke 2-3
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn(Luke 2:4-7).
Today’s reading opens with what are arguably the most wellknown verses recorded in the New Testament, Luke’s narrative of the birth of Jesus Christ. Just as he did with the first chapter, Luke once again seeks to draw us in and have us experience the wonder and joy surrounding the birth of our Savior. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:9-11). For centuries, these words have warmed the hearts of people worldwide as they gaze in their mind’s eye at the swaddled babe sleeping peacefully in the manger under the watchful eyes of Mary, His mother, and Joseph, her husband.
Luke then goes on to give us a single, precious glimpse into Jesus’ childhood. At the age of 12, He accompanied His family on their annual Passover trip to Jerusalem. While there, He became separated from His parents and was missing for three days. When they eventually found Him, He was conversing with the elders in the Temple, and He was astonished that they had considered Him missing. And He said unto them, How is it that ye sought Me? wist ye not that I must be about My Father’s business (2:49)? This is the last we are shown of young Jesus, but Luke closes the narrative of His childhood with this assurance: And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man (2:52).
It is difficult for many to read these first few joyous chapters of Luke and reconcile them with the horrific events that occurred a mere 33 years later, but to truly appreciate the depth of God’s love for us, we must. This innocent baby came into the world with full knowledge of the manner in which He would leave it, and He did so willingly, His heart brimming with compassionate love for all the desperate sinners that He had come to save. Yes, the angels in heaven rejoiced at His birth, but how much greater must have been the joy the day He ascended into heaven after His triumphant victory over sin and death? O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (I Cor. 15:55-57).
I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father (John 16:28). And now, O Father, glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was (John 17:5).
Thought for Today: Jesus' life was lived in preparation for the greatest of miracles, His death and subsequent resurrection. The same is true for all who are faithful to God.
Cross Reference: For Luke 2:23: See Ex. 13:2,12. Luke 2:24: See Lev. 12:8. Luke 2:32: See Is. 9:2; 42:6; 49:6. Luke 3:4-6: See Is. 40:3-5.
Word Studies: 2:7 swaddling clothes = linen cloth wrapped around an infant; 2:46 doctors = the rabbis who were the instructors in the Law; 3:1 tetrarch = ruler of a fourth part or one of four rulers of a country or province.
Prayer for Staff:Jennifer Palafox • Government Official: Sen. Ted Budd (NC) • Country: Estonia (1,257,921) Northeastern Europe • Major Languages: Estonian, Russian • Religious Freedom • 9.9% Lutheran; 16.2% Orthodox; 2.2% Other Christian; 0.9% Other; 54.1% None; 16.7% Unspecified • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks to the God of heaven; His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever (Ps. 136:26).