From little things big things grow
Luke 2:1-7
1 At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 2 (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. 4 And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 5 He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child.
6 And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 7 She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.
It would be no lie to say I love a Christmas love story movie. The story lines are sweet and predictable, with an emphasis on family (found or natural) priorities and finding a love to last for all time. I am a romantic at heart- so sue me! In just a few words this passage outlines a the start of new phase in the greatest love story of all time. Joseph our earthly hero has defied societal judgement to love and protect Mary and her reputation. A baby is born, everyone is ok. Sigh. No spoilers from me but this was only one small part of a bigger story. The humble beginnings of a new family portrayed here bely the greatness of what was happening. Because the greatest love story of all time is not Mary and Joseph (although that is pretty good) it is actually the story of God and us, all of humanity. Here God’s great love has shifted from the heavenly realm to the physical. This baby, born in a shed, was God’s son, sent to live a life like ours but to ultimately redeem us from eternal separation from God. The greatest love story of all time is about you and me and God’s great love which meant he would do ANYTHING to win us back to himself. Even be born as a mortal, in the most humbling and desperate circumstances. You may feel your story is small or humble compared to all eternity. But Jesus’s story also had very humble beginnings. Your story and mine is not too small for God. That little baby in the cow shed held the hopes and futures of us all.
Mighty God, may your great name be praised. Thank you that you love us all so much and thank you that sent your son to earth so that we might fully understand how much you love us. Help us Lord to never forget how much you have done for us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen
Written by Christine Knight