Luke 2:8-20 “In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see- I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.”

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” 

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at the what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.”

Adonai, I feel You here in this place and I believe You are pleased. My heart is welling up with so much emotion that I cannot contain it. I want to slow everything down and soak in it all. The room is warm enough to keep out the nighttime chill. The light from the star outside illuminates every corner with heavenly light and brings a glow that seems to almost shine from within everything in this place. The animals are sleeping, except for that one little lamb that keeps trying to try to feed on the hay in the manger where Jesus lay. 

Joseph is curled up in the corner, finally getting some sleep. His eyes could not stay open for one more minute after the shepherds left. He quietly asked if I was okay and if I’d mind if he caught some rest. That was hours ago, and I won’t even think of disturbing him. He deserves a good sleep and so much more. What a strong and quiet man he is. Lord, he will make a wonderful father for Your son. Praise You for Your care over us. 

Oh listen, the baby is starting to stir. I can hear just the tiniest of cries, but it’s enough to draw me closer to his makeshift bed. I peek into the manger, meant to feed the animals, and my heart about bursts. This precious baby boy with his big brown eyes, just looks up at me and smiles. Do you want some more to eat, little one, or just some snuggles? I can do that. And I’m sure that little lamb will be happy to have his feeding trough free for another snack. 

As I lift Jesus into my arms to bring him close, the sweet baby scent and the feel of his soft skin against my arm makes me smile. I can’t help but recall the words of the shepherds and be in awe again of what You are doing, Adonai. So many messengers from heaven, this time to the humble men who were quietly going about their work out in the fields. You shared our secret with them! I know that feeling they must have felt, when there suddenly appeared this strange light with Your messenger. I had to laugh when one of the young men said his legs could not hold him up. I knew just what he meant. This whole adventure we are on seems overwhelming at times. 

But even so, I gaze again at this sweet cooing infant in my arms, and You remind me that nothing is impossible for God. Elizabeth and Zechariah have a son now. A son who will be a prophet and will make the way for Jesus. You bring life where it was barren, and You use the lowly to share Your majesty. I can’t help but ponder, amidst the joy of this day, what is next? Now that the Messiah is here, what does that mean? Your plan is in motion, but we don’t know the future. How long will it take for Your plan to be complete? This is just a baby, not a warrior who can conquer our enemies. He must grow, and learn, and so much more before he can save his people. As I hold his tiny hand in mine and gaze at the perfection of his little feet, I can’t help but wonder how he will do that?

Oh, how precious you are, my sweet Jesus! What a gift to be your mother! Adonai, I promise you that I will protect him and teach him all about You. I will guide him in Your way and pray with him. Our little family will serve You and love You with all our being. And all the rest, I will leave in Your capable and loving hands. All Joseph and I can do is trust and work each day to follow You in all we do. Stay by our side and we will walk this path together. 

Reflection Questions: We have come to the end of our Advent story. But it is just the beginning of a much bigger tale. One that is true and powerful and meant to bring us Salvation. How will you continue to allow this idea of praying with your imagination through Scripture to guide you in your prayer life during this Christmas season and beyond? Will you ponder all these things in your heart, just as Mary does? Now that Jesus has been born in Bethlehem, how will he be born in you? 

Prayer: Help me Sweet Jesus, to make the time each day to ponder and reflect on Your Word. Give me an open heart to receive the Holy Spirit and let Your words of Scripture make me into the person You desire and to share You with everyone in my life. You are my greatest gift this Christmas. Thank You for coming into our world and into my life. Amen.