An Uncommon Birth

By Carin LeRoy –

This would be an unusual Christmas. It was the first time that I had not been with my family. My husband and I were far away in a country overseas working as missionaries. Everything was different—the people, the weather and the food. Instead of having family around, we were in a strange new culture. Instead of enjoying brisk winter weather, we were enduring temperatures hovering around 100 degrees. Instead of sweet potato soufflé, pecan pie and a huge turkey with dressing, we had to adjust the menu. This Christmas would be different.

Although I missed my family, God gave us a new family to celebrate with—fellow missionaries who were also serving. We spent a few days together celebrating and preparing a special meal. We exchanged simple presents with one another. Even though everything was different, we began to create our own traditions within the culture where we served.

Imagine what Christ went through to leave heaven and be born as a tiny baby on earth. He wasn’t welcomed as God or born in a place of luxury. He deserved both. He was born in a stable among the animals and placed in a trough where their feed normally went. His mother and father were humble villagers. Even His birth was announced only to three shepherds in a field. Most didn’t notice His birth or the catalyst that it was for all of mankind.

Here was God in human form. Instead of the fanfare that He deserved, He came from heaven to become the Son of a poor family. Only a few knew and understood the truth about His birth. His humble beginnings end with the most powerful story ever told—A God that sacrificed His only son, a Savior that loved enough to die and a gift given to all who believe. It’s not the presents, the parties or the holiday food that makes Christmas so special, it’s the Savior born in a manger.

PRAYER: Lord, thank You for leaving heaven to come and be born in a manger. As I celebrate this Christmas, keep me mindful of the real reason we celebrate.

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you:  You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger’” (Luke 2: 10-12 NIV).

Today’s devotional is by Carin LeRoy, wife to Dale and mother of three grown children and one almost-grown teenager. She has been a missionary with Pioneers since 1982. Her passions are family, missions, piano, and writing to challenge others to live faithful lives for God.