What Jesus’ Birth Reveals About Humanity
Written by Jamie Lamson
The midnight-black night sky is dotted with diamond-like sparkles. One source of light illuminates the world below: the North Star, His star. A small stable made of wood and thatch is nestled on a hillside. The faint cry of a newborn fills the silent air, reaching hearts from one end of the world to the other.
Even in our fear, God speaks identity over us, He gives us revelation, and He holds our hand as we take baby steps in learning to trust Him.
A cry exclaiming that the Kingdom of heaven is near.
A cry that unshackles the bondage of desperate hearts.
A cry that encompasses a God of comfort, shalom, and love.
While God-made flesh has been made known, what does His birth reveal about humanity? Let’s find out.
The Humanity of Mary
I wonder how Mary felt, a young, unwed Jewish girl with her life before her. She was engaged to an equally young Joseph and was most likely following the rules she knew by living her life according to her Jewish upbringing.
I wonder how fast her heart fluttered as Gabriel met her in the dark of night. Yet, as she considered the hows and whys of what Gabriel revealed to her, she still left room for wonder and faith.
I wonder what thoughts raced through her mind as she questioned her credibility, worth, and reputation that were at stake. Almost instantly, as if reading her thoughts, Gabriel declared the great favor that was over her life and her importance to the heart of the Father. (Luke 1:28)
And as she pondered Gabriel’s words, she agreed, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” (Luke 1:38, NLT)
Even as her circumstances did not encompass what was considered normal, she surrendered to the will of the One who provides. She released her life to Jehovah Jireh.
The Humanity of Joseph
I am sure we can all relate to Joseph. We diligently make plans for our lives and expect them to come to fruition according to our thoughts, dreams, and ideals.
Joseph was planning on marrying Mary. Quite possibly, those plans involved dreams of building a home while building a family together. And upon finding out that she was with child, Joseph made plans to break off their engagement quietly.
How often do we change our trajectory when things don’t pan out how we planned or thought they would? Trust can keep us on course, while fear can leave us searching for our own route.
Yet, God in His kindness will meet us where we’re at: fears, questions, and all. God knew the worries of Joseph’s heart. He was worried that his reputation would be soiled. He was afraid that Mary would be shunned, or worse, stoned to death. His concerns were valid, and still, God sent an angel to him to illuminate the plan.
“An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because what has been conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
-Matthew 1:20-21, CSB
Even in our fear, God speaks identity over us, He gives us revelation, and He holds our hand as we take baby steps in learning to trust Him. And in doing so, the world will never be the same.
The Humanity of Elizabeth
I always think fondly of Elizabeth. She is the friend I have always wanted and the friend I aspire to be. The kind of friend that can cheer another sister on in whatever lane she is running in. The sort of confidant that reminds another of her worth while knowing her own self-worth where she is standing.
While Elizabeth was with child herself, she was so in tune with the Holy Spirit that she knew Mary was carrying the Son of God. And not only that, but she also rejoiced and encouraged Mary as the mother of Jesus.
“Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
-Luke 1:42-45, NIV
How confident she must have been in her identity and the will of God that she wasn’t jealous, disheartened, or distraught that she was not chosen for this incredible calling.
As we consider the work God has called us to, may we all be an Elizabeth to someone in our lives.
The Humanity of King Herod
As the reigning king of Judea, King Herod the Great was not happy about a rumored new king in town. In fact, in his jealousy and rage, he set out to kill all baby boys under two years of age so that this new tiny king wouldn’t stand a chance. (Matthew 2)
In his position of power and pride, King Herod felt threatened that he would lose everything, so with all that he had, he fought for the spotlight and buzzworthy talk that now surrounded Jesus.
How often do we fight for something we believe is ours? Does jealousy swell in your heart, or are you able to be happy for the recipient? Do you tend to fight tooth and nail for something you believe is yours, or do you serve the other person the best way you know how?
God’s sovereign plan can’t be stopped. Therefore, whether we are in a role of power or servitude, man’s position greatly pales in comparison to the mighty miracle works of God.
The Humanity of Jesus
How kind and beautiful that the God of the universe would allow His Son to enter the world in the humblest of circumstances.
As Joseph and Mary traveled by donkey to Bethlehem, Joseph’s hometown, there was no place for Mary to give birth to the Savior. Since they were turned away from every inn and house, Mary brought Immanuel earthside on a bed of hay. Jesus’ first bed was a feeding trough for horses, cows, and pigs, and he was wrapped in swaddling cloth.
While there was no fanfare, parade, or celebratory commotion at Jesus’ birth, He still quietly arrived in the meekest of circumstances.
We can be confident that God with us knows what it’s like to have a lack in the physical realm. And at the same time, He understands what it’s like to have plenty in heart and spirit.
The One who deserves all-praise-and-glory-forever-amen came in quiet strength as a baby who would direct the hearts of man back to the awe and reverence of the Father.
The Humanity of the Wise Men
The Wise Men, also known as spiritual advisors, sure did bring an uproar great enough to instill worry and jealousy in the reigning king of Judea and the people he governed.
Are we raising a commotion as we seek Jesus? Do those in our workplaces, our neighborhoods, and even in our families wonder what the buzz is all about?
The Magi didn’t just bring about wonder as they were searching for this prophesied king, but they brought their worship through the offering of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. What worthy sacrifices are we bringing to King Jesus? Is it our time or our resources? Is it our talent or our words? Is it in the aroma of an incense pleasing to the Father?
Are you, like Mary, surrendered in heart and soul to the will of God? Or maybe you relate to Joseph, who just needs a little spiritual encouragement to stay the path.
Are you considered an Elizabeth to the women in your life as you remind them of their identities in the Kingdom of Heaven?
Where in your life have you reacted like King Herod?
What treasures do you currently have to offer to Immanuel?
Let’s be a people who worship the true King not only this Christmas, but beyond. And may our bright light point others to the stable.
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