“And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 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.” Luke 2:6-7 (NLT)
We investigated options. We researched available amenities at each facility. We took tours before making a final decision. We filled out the paperwork. We planned a date for admittance. None of that mattered in the end.
The hospital was beautiful with spacious rooms, kind nurses, and pampering services for new moms. The doctor planned to deliver our baby the next afternoon whether he was ready or not. My bag for the hospital was packed. Our three-year-old was headed for a sleepover at Grammy and Poppy’s house.
Until our baby decided he was ready to make his appearance six hours early. The beautiful hospital had no rooms available. We grudgingly checked into the hospital we had decided against. The room was stark and cold. The nurses were efficient but not very friendly. The birth did not go at all like we planned. Then we met our second son. The room no longer mattered. We suddenly appreciated how the nurses cared for us but allowed us the privacy to bond with our new bundle of joy. Ultimately, all that mattered was Kaden.
Mary gave birth to the Son of God in a manger—no beautiful room. She was surrounded by animals and hay—no doting nurses. The gospels do not record specifics, but I imagine pampering services were not part of the birthing package.
How did Mary handle the less than ideal circumstances for the birth of the Messiah? “She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger.” The surroundings didn’t matter; the birth is what matters. Looking into the eyes of the Son of the Most High, Mary was holding the One who would be the salvation of all mankind. Before she even met her bundle of joy, she praised the Lord for him: “Oh, how my soul praises the Lord. How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!” Luke 1:46b-47 (NLT)
As we approach Christmas, may we see what really matters—not the gifts, decorations, or parties. Ultimately, the birth of our Savior is all that matters.
“Thank You, Lord, for working in the life of a humble girl to provide the way of salvation. May we not be distracted by our surroundings but focus on the gift that is Your Son as we celebrate Christmas.”
For His Glory
Tammy Randlett (http://staletoast.com)
TRBC Women’s Life
trbccoffeebreak 
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