A Devotion from Shilo Taylor

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 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 2:4–7

For centuries, the Israelites had read the prophecies about God coming to free them. Many had memorized these passages and were eagerly waiting for the Messiah. But many expected a glamorous and mighty king who would conquer their oppressors and bring political freedom. As a result they expected that, as God’s people, they would gain respect and power. They thought the Messiah would act like other powerful earthly kings.

But God’s plan was different. God came to earth as a defenseless baby in a smelly barn. His parents were humble, ordinary, faithful people. Angels declared his birth to grubby shepherds and foreign wise men, not to politicians or religious leaders.

Jesus didn’t come to add rules, hang out with religious people, or act like a normal king. He came to fulfill God’s law, hang out with sinners, and die and rise again to cover our sin with his righteousness and forgiveness. He came to help people who desperately needed his help. He came for the hurting, the fearful, the guilty. He came to make us whole, to teach us, to comfort us, and to make us his. He came for you and me! By his wounds he heals us. By his death he gives us life. By his word and Spirit he transforms us to become like him.