In a stable in Bethlehem, God sent His Son, a Messiah, to be “with us.” To submit His Lordship, Power, and Authority to the constrictions of a human body, not to come as a six-foot, five-inch warrior, but as a baby. He came to earth to identify with all of humankind in the most humble form of a baby born in a barn.

In the nativity scene we often think about the stable, the shepherds, the animals, Mary and Joseph, and of course, baby Jesus. Often associated with the nativity scene are the “wise men” who come bearing gifts. (Although we aren’t exactly sure at what point they arrive, some would argue that Jesus was likely two years old). The “wise men” of Matthew 2:1-12 came from the East to Jerusalem to find this Messiah. They came bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

The anticipation of Christmas day is inspiring in the lives of little ones. They await a joy set before them brought on by past Christmases. The simplicity of their belief gives them access to a world larger than their own. Their wait, however, compares little to the wait of God’s people, Israel, and their anticipation of a coming messiah.

In ancient times, shepherds were often marginalized people, living amongst flocks of livestock in open fields for months on end. Literally one of the stinkiest, dirtiest jobs someone could have. In Bible times (and even today in the Middle East), many shepherds were women (like Rachel and Zipporah in the Old Testament). Culturally, women were overlooked and powerless.

It was to these ordinary people, going about their ordinary work, in an ordinary setting that God announced the birth of a Savior, the long-awaited Messiah, Christ the Lord.

God used heavenly messengers to announce the birth of His son, the Savior of the world. In a few instances - to Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds - He used an angel (Luke 1:26-27; Matthew 1:20-21; Luke 2:9-11). To the Magi (wise men), God used a star (Matthew 2:1-11).

What was Joseph to do? How would he respond? Because Joseph desired to not bring shame upon Mary, and certainly not to have her stoned, he was determined to do the honorable thing and divorce her quietly, showing his compassion and care for Mary even in his confusion and hurt. However, God had other plans for Joseph. Even though Joseph was willing to do the honorable thing, God called him to do the faithful thing.

In a small, insignificant village in northern Israel, an incredible visitor appears to a young teenager with an exclamation and a promise: “Rejoice, you who are highly favored!