A Simple Life

   “And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”  (Luke 2: 7)

   Born in a stable or cave since there was no room in any of the inns in Bethlehem.  Placed in a manger, a feeding trough for animals; perhaps a foretelling of the Eucharist by which He feeds us?

   

   He was without sin yet insisted that John baptize Him in order to fulfill all righteousness; unnecessary for Him but an example to all of the need for baptism to wash away original sin.  He was tempted by Satan just as we are tempted each day; by His rejection of those temptations He gave us the example to follow in our efforts to avoid sin.  Turn to God and His word and Satan loses every time.

   He chose the ordinary as His followers.  He lived the life of an itinerant preacher, not as pastor of a Mega-Church or great Cathedral.  His ministry, His good news was for everyone, not just the rich and famous who could contribute the most to His ministry.  He taught in simple words to a people who would not have understood great theological teachings but could understand the parables He used.  He fed thousands with a few fish and loaves; perhaps to show that even the smallest gift given to God in love can be the source of miracles.

   He lived, taught and died as a simple man.  Yet by His life, death and resurrection we were given the possibility of salvation and entry into eternal life in His presence.  He set His majesty aside to live as we live and reclaimed it at His resurrection, returning to the glory from which He came.

   During this Christmas season I choose to contemplate the simplicity of Christ’s life; a life lived for me and a death suffered for my sins.  I want to welcome Him in simplicity yet give Him all glory and praise.  I want to serve Him in all things and join Him in eternal life.