We Are God's Family
by Gary Toh, Director of Prayer Ministry
At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child.
And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped Him snugly in strips of cloth and laid Him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them. (Luke 2:1-7)
A few weeks ago, Pastor Tim preached about how King David led the procession to bring the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. It was such a big occasion welcoming the presence of the Lord back into the city. No expenses were spared; even the place where the Ark rested was opulent and regal.
In the Old Testament, the prophets foretold the coming of the Messiah – the Savior of the World. We would expect that God would come to Earth in a fantastic way. I could imagine Him coming in a chariot made of fire and accompanied by legions of angels. It will be such a glorious event that nobody would miss it.
But instead of coming with fanfare, power, and authority, the Lord chose to come as a baby born into a family. Jesus did not have a golden cradle to rest His head on; instead, He was laid on a manger. The Savior of the world came as a humble and vulnerable little human.
With Jesus being born into a family, I wonder if He is trying to tell us that He would like us to be part of His. The Bible says we are all adopted into God's family as sons and daughters when we become followers of Jesus.
God decided in advance to adopt us into His own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus Christ. This is what He wanted to do, and it gave Him great pleasure. (Ephesians 1:5)
Family is important to God, so remember to make time for family during this busy season. And be alert because the Lord may be nudging you to connect with other people, too, especially those who are alone or have no family. Welcome them with an open heart.
Reflection:
How can you point people to Jesus this week?
Pray for someone you know who’s hurting this Christmas because they’ve recently lost a loved one.