A Baby in a Manger
Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024
Bible Verse:
“She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”
– Luke 2:7 (EHV)
Devotion:
Have you ever had to make do with what you had? Maybe you forgot your water bottle at soccer practice and had to borrow a teammate’s, or your family had a picnic on the floor because the table was too messy. That’s kind of what happened to Mary and Joseph! There was no room for them in the inn, so they made do with a stable. And instead of a fancy crib, baby Jesus had a manger—a feeding box for animals.
Even though it wasn’t fancy, Jesus’ birth was exactly how God planned it. He came humbly, showing us that greatness doesn’t need golden crowns or royal palaces. It’s a reminder that God can do amazing things in the simplest places—including our hearts.
Questions:
Why was Jesus laid in a manger instead of a fancy crib?
How does Jesus’ humble birth show God’s love for everyone?
What are simple ways we can welcome Jesus into our hearts?
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank You for coming to us in such a humble way. Help us to remember that Your love is for everyone, no matter where we are or what we have. Amen.
Activity Idea:
Make a manger craft out of popsicle sticks or paper. Use it to hold a small paper “baby Jesus” to remind you of His humble birth.
Full Bible Reference:
“She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. There were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flock at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. For behold, I bring you good news of great joy, which will be for all people.’”
– Luke 2:7-10 (EHV)