Born in a Stable

Activity (Optional)

Prepare a simple picnic and eat together on a rug–inside or outside.

Devotional

Jesus was a very special baby, but he wasn’t born in a palace, a hospital, or even a fancy house. Joseph and Mary were travelling, and there were no lovely motel rooms or guest houses available. So, Jesus was born in a stable. Instead of a cot or cradle, Jesus slept in a manger (the food box for the animals). Can you imagine how dirty and smelly it must have been in that stable, with all of the animals around? God could have arranged for Jesus, his Son, the King, to be born anywhere, but he wanted us to understand that he cares about all people, not just the rich or powerful. God chooses to be close to ordinary people in an ordinary way. He shows that he loves everyone, no matter who we are or what we have (or don’t have). God chooses to be close to you.

Share

• Why do you think God chose for Jesus to be born in a stable rather than in an expensive hotel?
• Everyone–whether rich or poor–matters to God. What can we do to show people they matter to God and to us?

Pray

Dear Jesus, thank you for choosing to come to Earth and live as a human. Thank you for giving up Heaven to be close to us and to understand us. Help us to be willing to go to the places where people need love and help–even if it is uncomfortable for us. Amen.