“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” – Luke 2:11
The Birth Announcement of Jesus
As we celebrate the first Christmas, we cannot overlook the angelic announcement that brought joy to the shepherds. This moment marked the beginning of a new hope, a promise fulfilled. The birth of Jesus was proclaimed as good news, a gift of love and salvation for all of humanity. In times of darkness, this reminder that God sent His Son to us brings comfort and reassurance. We, as followers of Christ, can delight in the story that unveils how the humble arrival of our Savior changed everything. The announcement served as the bridge between heaven and earth, a call to humanity to acknowledge the great event that was unfolding in Bethlehem.
Luke 2:10
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.'” – Luke 2:10
Luke 2:10-11
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'” – Luke 2:10-11
Matthew 1:20-21
“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.'” – Matthew 1:20-21
Matthew 2:9-10
“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” – Matthew 2:9-10
Luke 2:13-14
“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.'” – Luke 2:13-14
The Nativity Scene
The nativity scene represents the humble beginnings of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Set in a stable and surrounded by animals, this picture reminds us that He came not as a mighty king but as a humble child. It teaches us about the importance of humility and simplicity in our lives. The scene captures the essence of love and warmth, where Mary and Joseph lovingly cared for their newborn. Through this imagery, we are invited to reflect on the importance of our own hearts being open to receiving God’s love and serving Him. As we gather around our own nativity scenes, let us take time to appreciate the beauty of this moment, a significant part of the first Christmas story.
Luke 2:7
“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 2:7
Isaiah 9:6
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
Luke 2:8-9
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.” – Luke 2:8-9
Luke 2:12
“This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” – Luke 2:12
The Role of Mary
Mary, the mother of Jesus, played an essential role in the first Christmas. Her faith and obedience were instrumental in the fulfillment of God’s promise. She accepted the call despite the uncertainties and challenges that lay ahead. As we reflect on her experience, we find encouragement to trust God in our lives. Mary teaches us about courage and the beauty of yielding to God’s plan, even when we cannot see the entire picture. When we look to her example, we are reminded that God can work through us to bring about His incredible purposes. The faith of Mary inspires us to embrace our own callings and trust in God’s path for us.
Luke 1:38
“‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May your word to me be fulfilled.’ Then the angel left her.” – Luke 1:38
Matthew 1:18
“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 1:18
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” – John 1:14
Luke 1:46-48
“And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed.'” – Luke 1:46-48
Galatians 4:4
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law.” – Galatians 4:4
The Shepherds’ Response
The shepherds were among the first to hear the joyous news of Christ’s birth and immediately responded with great excitement. Their eagerness to witness the newborn Savior exemplifies how we should react when we encounter God’s beautiful presence in our lives. The first Christmas story teaches us that we, too, should seek to find and experience the blessings that God places in front of us. As we journey through faith, the eagerness of the shepherds urges us to remain open to God’s voice, ready to receive His gifts. Their response encourages us to share the good news as they did, telling others of the love we have found in Christ.
Luke 2:15
“When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.'” – Luke 2:15
Luke 2:17
“When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.” – Luke 2:17
Luke 2:18
“And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” – Luke 2:18
Luke 2:20
“The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” – Luke 2:20
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
The Gift of the Magi
The Magi traveled from afar to honor the newborn king, bringing with them precious gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were not only thoughtful but also deeply symbolic. Gold represented Jesus’ kingship, frankincense His divinity, and myrrh foreshadowed His suffering. As we reflect on this part of the first Christmas, we are reminded that giving gifts is an expression of love and appreciation. Just as the Magi offered their best, we should also consider how we can dedicate our gifts and talents to honor God. This spirit of giving characterizes the heart of true worship and reminds us that we are called to bring our very best to Him.
Matthew 2:1-2
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'” – Matthew 2:1-2
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
Matthew 2:9
“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was.” – Matthew 2:9
Luke 2:34
“Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: ‘This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against.'” – Luke 2:34
Exodus 30:23-24
“Take the following fine spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much (that is, 250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane, 500 shekels of cassia—all according to the sanctuary shekel—and a hin of olive oil.” – Exodus 30:23-24
The Importance of Worship
The first Christmas teaches us the significance of worship. From the humble shepherds to the wise Magi, all who came to see Jesus recognized His divine nature and offered their hearts in adoration. Worship isn’t just an act of singing or praying; it’s a posture of our hearts that acknowledges God’s greatness. As we think about Christmas, we should remember that our worship invites us to draw closer to God, sharing with Him our gratitude and love. As we carry this spirit of worship into our lives, let us ensure it remains at the center of our celebrations. By recognizing the importance of worship, we can honor Christ’s presence in our lives well beyond the holiday season.
John 4:24
“God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” – John 4:24
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Psalm 95:6
“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.” – Psalm 95:6
Hebrews 13:15
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise— the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” – Hebrews 13:15
Psalm 150:6
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.” – Psalm 150:6
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the first Christmas, we are reminded of the beautiful story that unfolds in the humble town of Bethlehem. God sent His Son, Jesus, into our world to bring hope, love, and redemption. From the angelic announcements to the worship of the shepherds and Magi, it becomes clear that this day was filled with purpose and joy. We are called to continue sharing the message of Christ’s birth, to worship Him in spirit and truth, and to give our best in service to others. The warmth of the nativity scene reminds us that God chose to come to us in our simplest state, and in that, we find the essence of true love. May we carry the spirit of Christmas in our hearts throughout the year, always remembering the incredible gift we have been given.
If you’re looking to enrich your understanding and explore deeper connections to this beautiful faith journey, consider delving into topics such as Gabriel the Angel and Frankincense. There’s always more to discover as we continue our walk with the Lord.