During the holiday season, lots of nativity scenes are set up in different places - such as churches, city squares, etc. These usually have little figures of Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus, and often also the three wise men, shepherds, animals and others.

Although I enjoy looking at nativity scenes, the peaceful setting is misleading. It's very easy to forget all the chaos that went on with the first Christmas. The pregnancy began out of wedlock, which looked suspicious. Joseph was so miffed that he even planned to break his engagement to Mary, and would have done so if an angel had not told him to keep it (Matthew 1:18-25). A Roman census was ordered just prior to the birth, forcing the young couple to travel 70-some miles to Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-5 -- Keep in mind that Mary was pregnant and that they didn't have cars back then.) When they arrived all the hotel rooms were booked, so the delivery took place in a stable (Luke 2:6-7). Shortly after the birth the family had to flee to Egypt to escape Herod's persecution, traveling hundreds of miles.

In spite of this chaos, the first Christmas was a time of great peace and joy. Mary was so delighted in God's use of her that she burst into song (Luke 1:46-56). Shepherds and angels delighted in praising god for His Son (Luke 2:8-20). The three wise men were filled with joy when they found the baby Jesus. They showed their gratitude by offering gifts to Him (Matthew 2:9-11).

No matter how much chaos is in our lives, no matter what turmoil we have to go through, Christmas is always a time of joy and thanksgiving. God has sent His Son into the world to be our Savior - the greatest gift of all.

God Bless you.

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