The Birth of Jesus
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

In the little town of Nazareth, nestled among the hills of northern Galilee, was the home of Joseph and Mary, who were afterward known as the earthly parents of Jesus.

Now Joseph was of the lineage, or family, of David; and so, when a degree was sent out for the taxing of the nation, he had to go to Bethlehem, the city of David, to have his name enrolled.

This was a toilsome journey, in the way people had to travel in those times, and Mary, who accompanied her husband, was very weary as they climbed the hill on which Bethlehem stands.

How she longed for a comfortable place to rest! But the inns were already full, and while the rich and proud were well cared for, this humble pair had to seek shelter in a rude building where cattle were fed.

They were not poor; for though they had few earthly possessions, God loved them, and that gave contentment and peace. They were children of the Heavenly King, who was about to honor them above all earthly beings.

Angels had been watching them while they were on their journey, and as they went to rest in their humble lodgings, they were not along: angels were still with them.

It was here, in this lowly shed, that Jesus, our Saviour, was born and laid in a manger. In this rude cradle lay the Son of the Highest—He whose presence had lately filled the courts of heaven with glory.

There, He had been adored by angels; here, the beasts of the stall were His companions. But the place could not dishonor Him; He gave it a glory that will not depart from it so long as the name of Bethlehem is known.