Luke 2:1-20
Without knowing it, the emperor Augustus is one of the instruments God uses to fulfil His marvellous plans. Unknown to all, Mary and Joseph return to Bethlehem, and it is there that the birth of the Lord Jesus takes place. But what an entrance the Son of God made into this world! See Him lying in a manger because there was no room for Him in the inn! His coming disturbs everyone. How many hearts resemble this inn: there is no room for the Lord Jesus in them.
It is not to great men but to humble shepherds that the good news is announced: "Unto you is born a Saviour"; He was born for them and for us. If the world is not concerned about the birth of the Saviour, the whole of heaven takes part in the worship of this matchless mystery: "God was manifest in the flesh . . . seen of angels" (1 Timothy 3:16). They give glory to God in their wonderful chorus, announcing peace on earth and God’s good pleasure in men (cf. Proverbs 8:31). The sign given to the shepherds helped them find the little babe. They share what they have just seen and heard, and in their turn they give glory to God (v. 20). Let us unite with them in thanksgiving and praise.