The Christmas story comes alive
The Christmas story has been told throughout the centuries, however along the way the symbolic meaning of the circumstances surrounding Christ’s birth have been forgotten. The revealing of this symbolism causes the Christmas story to come alive once again. First century Jewish believers would have taken note of these meaningful details, yet it’s very easy to overlook them today.
The story begins, “That night some shepherds were in the fields outside the village guarding their flocks of sheep.” (Luke 2:8). The only flocks kept near Bethlehem at that time of year were the Passover flocks. The shepherds were looking for lambs that were spotless, without blemish or broken bones that could be used for sacrifice. And it was the shepherds who were called upon to seek out and identify the newborn Lamb of God.
It was just an ordinary work day for the shepherds when suddenly an angel appeared and said, “I bring you good news of great joy for everyone! The Saviour, yes the Messiah, the Lord has been born tonight in Bethlehem, the City of David.” (Luke 2: 10). The shepherds made their way into Bethlehem, not only to see a baby, but also identify the spotless human Lamb of God who would become the sacrifice for you and I.
The angel gave them further instructions saying, “And this is how you will recognize him. You will find a baby lying in a manger, wrapped snugly in strips of cloth.” (Luke 2: 12). The manger held significant meaning for the shepherds who protected a newborn lamb by carefully placing it in a manger to prevent it from getting injured by the rest of the flock, because an injured lamb could not be used for a sacrifice. Jesus was born in a manger.
In those days people wore strips of cloth around their waist when they travelled. The cloth was used to wrap the bodies of anyone who died. Baby Jesus was wrapped in strips of cloth, signifying he was born to die just like a spotless lamb.
Jesus, the spotless lamb was without sin while living on this earth. Hebrews 4:15 says he was “tempted in every way, yet he did not sin”, and 2 Corinthians 5:21 says “He who knew no sin was made to be sin for us”. Jesus was the last Passover lamb to be offered.
As the years go by the story of Jesus’ birth continues to be told, especially during this festive season. Your loving Father God carefully orchestrated every detail of the story, demonstrating His enormous love for each and everyone. He had only one purpose in mind …. “For He wants everyone to be saved and understand the truth. For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and people. He is the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2: 4-5).
During this special time of year, Pastor Dana and Marge Bailey, along with the leadership team and congregation at Kindersley Christian Fellowship wish you all a very blessed Christmas season and a Happy New Year in 2026.