The Olive Wood Manger

By Judy Davis –

My first children’s book, The Olive Wood Manger, was published last year. God is so good as He gives us ideas, concepts and insight. Each book I write has plenty of Scriptures for I know His Word will not come back void. “My word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11 NIV).

When our younger grandchildren visit us during the holiday season we always have a joyful time of celebration. I’ll never forget the Christmas our grandson started to open a gift when he saw my little “Olive Wood” manger scene I had purchased in Bethlehem.

He slowly picked up Baby Jesus, then the manger, a donkey, and a camel, holding them in his tiny hand. He laid down his new gifts that were still wrapped and started playing with “Baby Jesus.”

It was not long when he ran to me and said, “Nana, where is Baby Jesus, I can’t find baby Jesus.” We both got down on our hands and knees looking for him under the rug, the sofa, the table. Finally he saw the little replica of Baby Jesus. “I found him, I found him,” squeaked Connor. It was at that moment I thought of the verse, “Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14 NIV).

As we prepare our homes for this joyful holiday let us also prepare our hearts. Make room for Christ in Christmas. When the holidays seem hectic with all the preparation of cleaning house, shopping, gift-wrapping, decorating, baking, and addressing Christmas cards, take time to plan. Start early making a list of things to do. Then you are ready to celebrate the greatest time of the year.

When all the bad news broadcasting around us makes the holidays seem too tense, take time to rejoice! Christmas begins in the manger as the story of the birth of Christ unfolds.

PRAYER: Father, thank you for Jesus Christ the Son of God who lived and died so we may live according to your plan and purpose.

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:8, 11-12 NIV).