Mother of the Savior
[Mary] gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
-Luke 2:7 (NRSV)
SINCE becoming a mother, I read the Christmas story in Luke with a new understanding of God's great gift. I am impressed not only with the enormity of this gift but with the beautiful way it was given. Jesus, the Savior of us all, is born in a dirty stable to a young girl. Not a beautiful beginning, not much fanfare.
After Jesus' birth, Mary, little more than a child herself, is entrusted along with Joseph with caring for Jesus. I can only begin to imagine her nervousness! New parents always face doubts and fears, but these two were the parents of the Savior of the world. What an awesome responsibility!
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However, every child born is an enormous responsibility as well as a gift from God. Jesus' birth in a simple stable reminds me that every child born into this world has amazing potential; greatness is born among us in the unlikeliest of places. As I celebrate the birth of the Savior child, I am reminded to honor him in the way I honor others, especially children.
