My First DevotionalSample

Jesus is Born: Day 5

While they were in Bethlehem, the time came for Mary to have the baby, and she gave birth to her first son. Because there were no rooms left in the inn, she wrapped the baby with pieces of cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough.

Luke 2:6-7

Just before Mary had her baby, the king decided he wanted everyone in the country to be counted and pay taxes, but they had to be in their hometown. So Mary and Joseph left their town and went to Bethlehem, which is where Joseph’s family was from. While they were there, Mary had her baby. Sadly, since there were so many people in Bethlehem, there was no room in anyone’s house for them to sleep in. But someone did let them stay with the animals. Only the newborn Savior ended up with a bed that night, and it was a manger—the place where people kept the food for their animals! They named Him Jesus, just as the angel had said.

Find a baby doll or a stuffed animal and a box or laundry basket. Put the doll in the basket, pretending that it is baby Jesus in the manger. Gather around the box then pray: Thank You so much, Jesus, for coming, and for being born with the animals instead of in a castle. Thank You for loving us so much that You would come down from heaven to live with us. We love You so much Jesus.

Prayer

Thank You, God, for protecting Mary and Joseph on their long trip. And we most especially thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.