Pondering Jesus’ Birth

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.

We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only,

who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

John 1:14

Lord Jesus, as I ponder Your birth, I wonder:

• ·      When did You, who had been with the Father from eternity past, plan the events of your birth?
• ·      When did You, for whom and by whom all things were created, create the star that led the magi to worship You?
• ·      Upon Your birth did Your furry creation recognize You as their Creator? Was there a lamb in the shelter that night to welcome You, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world? (John 1:29)
• ·      When did the angels learn of their role in announcing Your birth? How long did they anxiously await the moment they could fill the heavens with praise of You, the Most High?
• ·      When did the shepherds’ fear turn to excitement? When did their excitement turn to humble, heartfelt worship? Were their lives forever changed after that night?
• ·      After the shepherds spread the good news of Your birth and the supernatural events surrounding it, how many people from Bethlehem came to behold You and worship You?

My questions turn to praise:

At a planned point in time, You, the Lord of all, set aside Your glory. You humbled Yourself and became the Son of Man. You, the Creator, became the created. You were born of flesh that we might be born of the Spirit. You put on flesh that we might put on holiness. You, the Light, entered the world of darkness, revealing clearly the way to God. You, the Lamb of God, laid down Your life and opened heaven’s door for all who believe in You. Your birth changed the world! Your birth changed me forever!

O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!

I bow in honor, adoration and gratitude before You, Most High. You, Jesus, truly are the greatest gift ever given!

Jan Burkhart