The Jesse Tree: Day 25
MANGER & CHRIST
Today is Christmas! A day when the world celebrates with lights, gifts, and gatherings. And yet, amid all the joy and activity, it’s easy to forget the quiet, humble beginning of this celebration. The true wonder of Christmas isn’t found in extravagance; it’s found in a manger.
Jesus was born lowly, wrapped in simple cloths, and laid in a feeding trough. Not in a palace, not surrounded by servants, but in the ordinary, accessible space of a home. This manager, a simple place for animals, became the first throne of the King of kings. God chose humility to come near to us, showing that His greatness often shines brightest in ordinary places.
The shepherds, overlooked and ordinary themselves, were the first to hear the angelic proclamation:
Jesus was born lowly, wrapped in simple cloths, and laid in a feeding trough. Not in a palace, not surrounded by servants, but in the ordinary, accessible space of a home. This manager, a simple place for animals, became the first throne of the King of kings. God chose humility to come near to us, showing that His greatness often shines brightest in ordinary places.
The shepherds, overlooked and ordinary themselves, were the first to hear the angelic proclamation:
Good news of great joy… for unto you is born a Savior! - Luke 2:10-11
The angels’ message reminded them, and reminds us, that the true King is both lowly and mighty. His power is not in pomp or wealth but in the love that draws near, in the peace that surpasses understanding, and in the hope that transforms hearts.
Even as we gather around trees, gifts, and feasts today, the manger calls us back to simplicity and wonder. Like the simple stand of a Christmas tree supports all the ornaments above it, the lowly manger supports the weight of God’s plan for the world. Without Christ, all our celebrations are beautiful but empty. With Him, every act of joy, worship, and generosity is grounded in eternal significance.
On this Christmas Day, we’re invited to reflect on both sides of the gift we celebrate: humility and majesty. Jesus came lowly to be with us, yet He is mighty to save. We can follow Him today by serving others quietly, offering love without seeking recognition, and making room for Him in our hearts and homes.
Be sure to make this a day of great rejoicing and remembering! As we open presents and share meals, remember the ultimate gift: God with us. Today, the Word became flesh (John 1:14) and entered our world—not as a distant ruler, but as Emmanuel, near and accessible. That is the wonder we celebrate: a King who is both lowly and mighty, whose presence brings joy that lasts beyond this day
Even as we gather around trees, gifts, and feasts today, the manger calls us back to simplicity and wonder. Like the simple stand of a Christmas tree supports all the ornaments above it, the lowly manger supports the weight of God’s plan for the world. Without Christ, all our celebrations are beautiful but empty. With Him, every act of joy, worship, and generosity is grounded in eternal significance.
On this Christmas Day, we’re invited to reflect on both sides of the gift we celebrate: humility and majesty. Jesus came lowly to be with us, yet He is mighty to save. We can follow Him today by serving others quietly, offering love without seeking recognition, and making room for Him in our hearts and homes.
Be sure to make this a day of great rejoicing and remembering! As we open presents and share meals, remember the ultimate gift: God with us. Today, the Word became flesh (John 1:14) and entered our world—not as a distant ruler, but as Emmanuel, near and accessible. That is the wonder we celebrate: a King who is both lowly and mighty, whose presence brings joy that lasts beyond this day
Pause to reflect
How can I honor the lowly birth of Christ in my celebrations today?
In what ways can I recognize and celebrate the mightiness of Jesus as King in my life?
In what ways can I recognize and celebrate the mightiness of Jesus as King in my life?
Lord, thank You for coming lowly and mighty to be with us. Help us to see Your presence in the ordinary and to celebrate Your greatness in all we do today. May our hearts be filled with wonder, gratitude, and joy as we worship You, the true gift of Christmas. Amen.
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