In Luke chapter 2, the angel announced to the shepherds that the Saviour was born. The shepherds needed to know how to recognize the new-born Saviour. Hence, they were told that the sign was “a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
What a sign! Jesus was equal to God and could have chosen to be born in a wealthy, or at least a clean and hygienic environment. Yet he chose to be born in a dirty stable and placed in a trough used for putting animal feeds.
A six year-old girl asked her mother, “Why is He lying in the hay? Younger brother has a beautiful cradle. How unfair it is!” Her mum replied, “Jesus Himself chose to be poor, this is because there are so many poor children in this world.”
This reply spoke to the heart of this little girl who had just lost her father 3 months ago. In that instant, there appeared before her a marvelous baby lying in the hay. The Baby was full of kindness to the poor, and He appeared to be reaching out His hands to her. This picture helped to heal the emptiness due to the loss of her father.
Yes, Jesus Himself chose to come into the world in a humble manner. The Bible says, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death – even death on a cross.” (Phil. 2:6-8)
Out of His love for us, He gave His life to pay for our sins, so that we can be reconciled to God. What marvelous love this is.
The little girl was inspired to dedicate her life to serving poor people in various countries.
What is your response to Jesus’ love for you?
Elder Ng Hwee Hin
