Away in a Manger

In my work I hear people say a lot, "No one understands what I am going through." And I have to admit I have even said it--a time or two. So even though I know that the statement holds little weight, I understand what it is like to feel all alone and like there is no where to turn. I find myself at this place at Christmas time, and I find my hope in a manger. 

Matthew 1:18 says, "Now this is how Jesus the Messiah was born. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. But while she was still a virgin, she became pregnant by the Holy Spirit." I have always thought of the significance on the virgin birth to be to show how powerful and miraculous God is. I read a commentary that showed it in a different light. Mary was impregnated by the Holy Spirit so Jesus was born apart from the sinful nature that is passed on to each of us through Adam. Mary was His mother so He was born completely human. Both God and human at the same time. So He understands human nature and our struggles at the same time that he understands the big picture. 

So my Christmas gift to you is a reminder that when you feel alone remember that God sent a baby, that grew into man, and died on a cross so that we have someone that gets what we are going through. Jesus can and will lead you through it.