Stations of the Manger 9

Stations of the Manger 9. The Birth of Christ

Christmas Morning

Nativity Scene: The baby Jesus is added to the scene.

Scripture: (Luke 2:6-7)
And it came to pass, while they were there, the days were fulfilled that she would give birth.
And she brought forth her firstborn son; and she wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger…

Reflection: How awesome it is that our Creator would come to us in the form of a human to redeem us, to teach us, to awaken us, and to show us how to love. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, so that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) He lived the life of a human to show us that he understands our situation. He understands what we face and what we struggle with. His incarnation was an act of love. His gift to us was fulfilled on the cross and through his teaching, but it began for us on this first Christmas Day.

Prayer: Lord our God, You sent Your Son, the Light of the World, into the darkness that covers the earth and the hearts of its people. May the brightness of his rising shine in
18the church, so that the nations may awaken and walk toward the light, Jesus, the Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Hymn(s): Away in a Manger; Silent Night; Christ is Born

Response: This is a day of praise and thanksgiving! It is important to worship God together as a community and individually in your own heart. Use this day of worship and praise as a springboard to a new beginning for your life. Allow the Holy Spirit to enter you, help you to shed all that is not of God, and let a new heart be born in you on this Christmas Day.

Perhaps this is a day when you can either begin or renew your commitment to spend more time each morning and evening with your Lord. Build stability in your life by meeting with Him several times each day in prayer. Listen to what He might be telling you in the scriptures that you read, and in the circumstances He places before you each day. Listen to your heart and watch carefully what is happening around you.

Let Him shape your life little by little, so that you can come to know, love and serve Him in your own unique way – the way that He created you to be. Letting your true self come from your heart will bring you the everlasting fruits of the Holy Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, gentleness, and self-control. (Gal. 5:22)

Blessings to all,

Br. Daniel-Joseph