A Humble Servant
The King of Kings humbled himself and was born to a poor Jewish family in Bethlehem of Judea. Imagine this the creator of the universe came down from heaven as an infant and was totally dependent on Mary and Joseph for his care. God the Son created man and now the descendants of Adam cared for the creator.
Luke 2
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. (AV)
The world then and now recognizes kings and celebrities and “worships them” A king is born with a gold spoon in his mouth and is given the best and finest for his life. A palace to live in; fine clothes and food, an education. If the king is just his subjects will prosper if not they will despair.
Our King of Kings was born in a relative’s house in Bethlehem because Mary and Joseph had to go there for the census. They were put in the lower level where animals were protected at night since all the rooms had relatives in them due to the census. After his birth Jesus was laid in a feed trough used for animals. He was wrapped in swaddling clothes like a newborn lamb was.
Luke 2
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; (AV)
Other than the immediate family, that most certainly visited the newborn, the first outside visitors to see the newborn babe were the shepherds that the angels had told of the birth.
Luke 2
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. (AV)
Shepherds were poor outcast members of that society in those days. The shepherds visited and wondered at the birth of the promised Messiah and they witnessed what Scripture has promised!
Earthly kings then or now wouldn’t dream of such an introduction into the world. Our Savior’s first coming was as a servant to his creation. He humbled himself in birth, he humbled himself to wash the feet of those he served and he humbled himself on a cross 33 years later to take your sins and my sins upon himself so we could have everlasting life if only we believe in him. Believe in Jesus our King and you will prosper in your daily walk with him and will have the reward of everlasting life.
May God Bless you,
Phelps Chapel
Connect With Us