The Gift of God's Love Came Wrapped in Humility

By Danny Saavedra

“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”—Luke 2:6–7 (NIV)

Every parent knows the mixture of excitement and anxiety that comes with preparing for a baby’s arrival. When my wife and I were expecting our first child, we spent weeks getting his room ready . . . painting, decorating, assembling furniture. But the most care went into building the crib. I wanted it sturdy and safe, a place where our son could rest securely.

Now, imagine what kind of place the King of the universe deserved. Surely, a royal nursery with gold and fine linens, right? Instead, the Son of God’s first crib was a feeding trough . . . an animal’s food bin. The One who spoke the stars into space, who made the vast universe, was laid in a manger because there was no room for Him anywhere else.

Why was there no room? Well, Bethlehem was crowded because of Caesar’s census. Everyone had returned to their ancestral hometowns to register for taxation. For Joseph and Mary, that meant a long and uncomfortable journey—nearly 100 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem. When they arrived, there was no space in the guest room, so they likely stayed in the lower level of a family home where the animals were kept. That’s where the Savior of the world was born: surrounded by livestock, in a humble cave-like space.

It’s almost poetic, isn’t it? The Bread of Life was born in Bethlehem, which literally means “house of bread.” He was laid in a manger, which was a place of feeding. He would become the nourishment of our souls . . . the One who satisfies our deepest hunger. The Good Shepherd was surrounded and worshipped by shepherds.

This is the paradox of Christmas. The story of salvation doesn’t begin with grandeur, but with grace. The glory of God wrapped itself in swaddling cloths. The eternal Word became flesh, not in a palace, but in poverty. It didn’t take place among nobles, but among the needy.

Philippians 2:6–8 (NIV) says Jesus “did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage, but made himself nothing . . . he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross.” The humility that began in Bethlehem would lead all the way to Calvary.

Today, let’s remember that every detail of this story was intentional. The manger wasn’t an accident; it was a message to all of humanity . . . a message that declares God isn’t impressed by status or comfort; He’s drawn to humility. His love stoops low so that no one can say they’re too far gone, too unworthy, or too broken to be reached by His grace.

If God could make His home in a stable, He can certainly make His home in you.

So, as you look at the manger tonight, see more than a baby wrapped in cloth. See the King who left heaven for you. See the love that came wrapped in humility.

Put It To Practice: Connect

God created us for deep connection! Whatever your personality is, you weren’t meant to do life alone. An essential part of becoming more like Jesus is developing routines of connecting with His people. Additionally, the greatest commandment was summarized by Jesus as loving God and loving others. Today, practice loving others by connecting intentionally through games and food! Whatever you’re doing this Christmas Eve, take time to really see and love the people around you while having fun.

For the Family

Today’s Main Idea: Jesus’ birth shows that God’s love came wrapped in humility.

Ask Together:

1. Why do you think Jesus was born in such a humble place instead of a palace?
2. What does that tell us about God’s heart?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus… the King who left heaven for a stable. Thank You for showing us that real greatness isn’t found in power or possessions, but in humility and love. As I celebrate this Christmas, help me make room for You in every part of my heart. Let Your peace, joy, and presence fill my life and home. In Jesus’ name. Amen.