The Road to Bethlehem

The Baby Jesus: December 22

“And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger” (Luke 2:7).

The baby cried out softly, and His mother, Mary, held Him close. She kissed His cheek and hummed a sweet song. The sleepy baby closed His eyes. Joseph and Mary watched the baby sleep, amazed at the miracle that He was. Months earlier an angel had told them that Mary’s baby would be Jesus Christ—the Son of God. And now, here He was, a tiny baby asleep in Mary’s arms.

swaddling clothes: strips of cloth wrapped snugly around a baby

Mary had wrapped baby Jesus in swaddling clothes to keep him warm and safe. Now she placed Him in the manger so she could rest.

Counsellor: someone who gives advice or guidance

Hundreds of years before this night, prophets of God had written of the birth of Jesus Christ. The prophet Isaiah called Jesus “Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). All of those important names describe the Savior. But on this night in Bethlehem, He was also a baby boy, loved by His mother and father.

Share the Light

The prophet Isaiah said, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given” (Isaiah 9:6). Isaiah didn’t say, “unto Mary and Joseph” or “unto the people in Bethlehem.” He said, “unto us.” Jesus Christ was born to bless everyone. He was born to bless you. What does this mean to you?

When you see a Nativity scene this Christmas, look at the baby in the manger and remember that He was born for you. To read about the Savior’s birth, read Luke 2:6–19 or see page 35.