7 And she gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Luke 2:7 (RSV)

Picturing Mary give birth to Jesus in a manger seems demeaning to us who live in mansions called houses today. 

Yes, he should have been born in a palace because he is a king. 

Yes,, he should have been surrounded by riches and ceremony because he was the highest priest. 

But, his birth in a manger should not be considered demeaning either.

In those days, the family lived in the house above the stable or in an enclosure beside them so the heat from the animals would warm them. 

The animals were cherished because they provided food,

worked the fields,

gave milk,

provided wool for clothing,

eggs for food,

and meat for eating. 

What could be more intimate and vital to our life here on earth?

Whereas, if they had stayed in an inn, they would have been surrounded by strangers,

been cold because of no warmth provided by the animals,

and distant from importance of family.

Instead, God provided His Son as a baby born right into the very heart of human existence - home. 

That place where the heart resides. 

That place which provides the necessities of life. 

That place which is meant to provide intimacy.

Think of it. 

God wants live in the very heart of our life - physical, social, psychological, spiritual. 

That place which provides for our life with food, shelter, warmth, and purpose.

That place meant to provide us with intimacy. 

That place where we learn, experience, and know what values mean. 

That place where the necessities of all aspects of a successful life are meant to come from.

Home. 

That is where God chose to share His Son’s birth for you and me. 

No matter what your present family situation is, God wants to provide everything home was meant to provide for you - home.