While a vast majority of Americans still celebrate Christmas, only half of them believe that the Biblical record of Jesus’ birth accurately describes real events that actually happened. Yet Luke 2 does not read like a myth or fairy tale. By setting his narrative within a specific historical, political, and geographical context, Luke is reminding us that the gospel of Jesus Christ is based on facts and actually depends on the reliability of the historical record. As we observe the details, we marvel at how God relates to the world. It was in the days when Caesar Augustus was Emperor of Rome and Quirinius was governor of Syria that Joseph and Mary were required to travel to the city of Bethlehem in order to participate in a government census. Caesar was the most powerful man in the world; at his word people were set into motion. Yet he was a pawn in God’s hand to get this young couple to the exact place He wanted them to be, at exactly the right time, that the Savior would be born in Bethlehem, according to the ancient prophecy of Micah. In every situation, God guides His own people, graciously working out His sovereign will (v 1-5). Though God wondrously rules over all things, He also stoops to lowly places. After the long journey, Mary is not treated to comfortable accommodations. Instead, she delivers her baby in a smelly stable, laying Him in a feeding trough. So if God is in charge of everything, even orchestrating world events to get them to Bethlehem at just the right time, could He not arrange for them to have a room at the inn? After all, Jesus is Son of the Most High, an eternal King—He deserves the best! Wrap Him in a silk cloth and lay Him in a royal crib at the palace! But instead, the humble manger scene points us to the Christian gospel, foreshadowing the cross, where Christ would suffer and die (v 6-7). The incarnation of God’s Son was the most important event in the history of the universe, yet it took place in an obscure rural setting, witnessed by only a few anonymous shepherds. They were from the lowest economic class in first century Palestine, but God chose them to receive the glorious announcement that a Savior was born! It was “good news of great joy… for all the people.” The Child is more than a gift to Mary and Joseph, more than a blessing to the whole world. “For unto you is born this day… a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” This Baby has come to reconcile and restore lost sinners, bringing peace among those with whom God is pleased. So we must respond in personal faith. Say to Him, “Lord, may I be one upon whom Your gracious favor rests?” God will say Yes to that prayer! And you too will glorify and praise Him (v 8-20). For further meditation: