12/4/2024
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” — Galatians 4:4-5
The birth of Christ is rightly celebrated as the pinnacle of God’s redemptive plan. Yet, it did not occur in isolation or in ideal circumstances. The events surrounding our Lord’s entry into the world—the dangers, trials, and humiliations faced by His earthly parents—reveal the profound cost and humility of God’s plan of salvation.
As we turn our hearts to the Christmas season, let us reflect on the struggles and sacrifices surrounding Christ’s birth, for they illuminate not only the depth of God’s love but also His sovereign power to work His purposes through the darkest of times.
The Threat of Herod: Human Power Against God’s Plan
One of the most striking events surrounding Christ’s birth is the proclamation of Herod, a tyrant whose fear of losing power led to a decree of shocking cruelty. When Herod heard from the Magi that a king had been born in Bethlehem, his heart was filled not with worship but with dread. Instead of rejoicing at the fulfillment of prophecy, Herod sought to destroy the newborn Messiah.
Matthew 2:16 records his horrific decree: “Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men.”
What a contrast we see here between the humility of the Christ child and the pride of earthly kings! Herod’s response reminds us of the enmity that has always existed between the kingdom of this world and the kingdom of God. Yet, despite Herod’s wickedness, he could not thwart God’s purposes. The Christ child was preserved, for no scheme of man can overthrow the plans of the Almighty.
Let us take comfort in this truth: the same God who preserved His Son in the face of Herod’s malice is the God who watches over His people today. Though the powers of this world may rage against God’s purposes, they will never prevail.
The Flight to Egypt: The Obedience of Faith
In response to Herod’s decree, Joseph and Mary fled to Egypt with the infant Jesus, heeding the warning given to Joseph in a dream. Matthew 2:13 recounts the angel’s words: “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.”
This event underscores the immense challenges faced by Jesus’ earthly parents. Fleeing to a foreign land would have been no small task, especially with a newborn in tow. Yet Joseph and Mary obeyed without hesitation, trusting in God’s guidance and provision.
Their journey to Egypt reminds us that following God’s call often requires sacrifice and faith. The path of obedience is rarely easy, but it is always worth it. Through Joseph and Mary’s trust, God not only protected the Savior but also fulfilled prophecy: “Out of Egypt I called my son” (Matthew 2:15, Hosea 11:1).
Let us learn from their example. When God calls us to take steps of faith—whether through uncertainty, hardship, or even danger—may we respond with the same trust and obedience, knowing that He is faithful to lead us.
The Humility of the Manger and Stable
The circumstances of Christ’s birth stand in stark contrast to what we might expect for the arrival of a king. Born not in a palace but in a stable, and laid in a manger instead of a cradle, Jesus entered the world in the humblest of surroundings. Luke 2:7 paints the scene: “And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.”
This humility was not accidental; it was intentional. The lowly setting of Christ’s birth illustrates the profound truth that God’s kingdom operates in ways that defy human expectations. The Savior of the world was not born into wealth or power but into poverty and simplicity. This is a vivid demonstration of Philippians 2:7: “But [he] emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”
The stable and the manger also point us to the inclusiveness of Christ’s mission. From the beginning, His birth was announced not to the elite but to lowly shepherds in the field (Luke 2:8-12). These humble beginnings serve as a reminder that the gospel is for all people, regardless of status or background.
As we reflect on the manger, let us be humbled by the lengths to which God went to reach us. Let us also be reminded that true greatness is found not in outward wealth or power but in humility and service.
Mary’s Public Ridicule: Trusting God Amid Shame
Mary’s role in the events surrounding Christ’s birth is nothing short of remarkable. Chosen by God to bear His Son, she was entrusted with a responsibility that brought both great joy and great difficulty. When the angel Gabriel appeared to her, she responded with faith and submission: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
Yet her obedience came at a cost. As an unmarried woman, Mary’s pregnancy would have subjected her to public scorn and ridicule. Even Joseph initially doubted her story, resolving to divorce her quietly until an angel appeared to him in a dream (Matthew 1:19-20). Imagine the whispers and judgments Mary would have endured from her neighbors and community. Yet she bore this burden with grace, trusting in God’s plan even when it brought her shame.
Mary’s experience teaches us that obedience to God often comes with challenges. Following Him may mean enduring misunderstandings, ridicule, or even rejection. But as Mary’s story shows, God’s purposes are always worth the cost. Her faith and humility allowed her to play a central role in the greatest story ever told.
Let us be inspired by Mary’s example. When we face trials or opposition for our faith, may we, like Mary, trust in God’s promises and rest in His grace.
The Sovereignty of God in the Midst of Chaos
As we consider the events surrounding Christ’s birth, one thing becomes abundantly clear: God’s sovereignty shines through every detail. From the fulfillment of prophecy in Herod’s actions and the flight to Egypt, to the lowly setting of the stable and the faith of Mary and Joseph, every moment was part of God’s perfect plan.
It is a testament to the fact that God’s purposes cannot be thwarted. Even in the face of human sin, opposition, and brokenness, God’s redemptive plan unfolds exactly as He intends. This is a source of immense comfort for us today. Just as God was sovereign over the events surrounding Christ’s birth, He is sovereign over our lives. No matter how chaotic or uncertain our circumstances may seem, we can trust that God is at work, accomplishing His purposes for His glory and our good.
Conclusion
The events surrounding the birth of Christ reveal the beauty, humility, and power of God’s redemptive plan. From Herod’s proclamation to Mary’s ridicule, from the flight to Egypt to the stable in Bethlehem, we see a God who works through the most unlikely circumstances to bring about His purposes.
As we celebrate this Christmas season, let us not forget the sacrifices and struggles that surrounded our Savior’s arrival. May we, like Joseph and Mary, respond to God’s call with faith and obedience. May we, like the shepherds, come in humble wonder to worship the newborn King. And may we take heart in the truth that the same God who sovereignly orchestrated Christ’s birth is at work in our lives today.
Prayer:
O Lord, we thank You for the wondrous plan of salvation revealed in the birth of Your Son. As we reflect on the events surrounding His coming, may our hearts be filled with awe at Your sovereignty, Your love, and Your faithfulness. Grant us the faith to trust You in all things, and the courage to follow wherever You lead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reformed Faith Insights 