Day 242 – Luke: Birth and preparation of Jesus, the Savior

“Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others – the armies of heaven – praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” Luke 2:13-14 NLT

Read Luke 1:1 to Luke 4:13

Soon after John the Baptist’s birth, Caesar Augustus declared a census, so Joseph took Mary and travelled to the town of David, their ancient ancestor. And in the little town of Bethlehem, Jesus already started fulfilling prophecies with His first breath as a baby. Angels announced this joyous event to the shepherds, who rushed to the manger and left praising God, and spread the news. The angelic announcements in Luke surrounding the preparation and birth of Jesus are more detailed than those in the other Gospels. One would think that a man of science would omit these accounts because they cannot be proven physically or scientifically. However, Luke was committed to providing a very accurate account, and the inclusion of these events emphasizes that God became flesh, that the divine chose humanity.

From an infant who could do nothing on his own, Jesus grew to become completely able to fulfil His mission on earth. Luke describes how God’s Son entered human history. Jesus lived as the perfect example. He was fully human, developing in all ways like us. Yet He remained fully God. He took no shortcuts and was not isolated from the pressures and temptations of life. He chose to go through it all.

Prayer: Father, at times we forget the events surrounding Jesus’ birth. It was such a special and holy moment when He became flesh for all. A sign on its own of Your love and choice to become the Savior. Thank You, that we can read the birth of Jesus and be reminded of Your love. Amen.