A Humble Christmas

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. — Luke 2:7 ESV

As much as we may want to, sometimes we can’t afford to pull out all the stops at Christmas.

Maybe this year has been leaner than others, or maybe something important has come up and you’re too busy to go the extra mile.

It’s easy to feel discouraged when this happens, especially when everybody else seems to be enjoying a lavish Christmas.

When God sent His Son into the world, He could have placed Him into a wealthy family in a large city. But that is not the Christmas God chose.

Christ came to humble parents in humble circumstances. And the angels announced the news to poor shepherds, not rich noblemen.

Some Christmases are more modest than others, and it can be hard to see the beauty in them.

But what if we didn’t view a humble Christmas with disappointment?

What if, like the shepherds, we came to worship Jesus with nothing but an open heart? Whatever circumstance you find yourself in this year, don’t let anything stop you from connecting with Jesus and those around you. The gift of Christ is beyond price, and it is ours! An extravagant Christmas celebration is not what matters. What counts is our humble worship of the King.

Is there something you’re disappointed or embarrassed about this Christmas?

Why do you think God chose to have His Son enter the world in humble circumstances?

How are you worshiping Jesus today?

Excerpted with permission from The Advent Project, copyright Zondervan.

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Your Turn

What if it’s not what’s wrapped up in a box that matters this Christmas? What if it’s our connection with The Gift that matters the most? Let’s turn our hearts and eyes to Him and let even the most humble celebration of Christmas Day honor His astonishing incarnation with worship and JOY!