At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. He took with him Mary, to whom he was engaged, who was now expecting a child. Luke 2:1-5 ESV

And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. She gave birth to her firstborn son.

Luke 2:6 ESV - - While they were there!?

Sometimes waiting is actually more work, but when it’s God’s will, it’s worth it. - - - Don’t push!!!

The Messiah in a manger! Has there ever been a more significant treasure found in a less impressive packaging? - The omnipotent, omniscient creator of the universe came to earth in the most vulnerable way to very young parents who had little or no significant earthly possessions. He was born in a stable & spent His first night, on the planet He set in orbit, sleeping in a manger! - Sounds just like Jesus.

That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! Luke 2:8-11 ESV

V 8 - Where are the self proclaimed spiritually elite / prideful? - We still have Pharisees and they’re not who you think they are. - the new dignified. Fruit starts with Grace and Mercy for one another. When Jesus grew up He only ever picked a fight with the religiously prideful. - Aggressive Reach! The King of creation didn’t announce His arrival to Kings in a Castle, but to pauper princes sitting serving in a hillside sanctuary.

And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”

Luke 2:12-14 ESV

Jesus has a history of being obvious in unexpected places.

Don’t miss Him today! - - It’s easy to miss what you don’t know you’re looking for…

In the middle of all the craziness that is Christmas make sure you don’t miss the Messiah