Have you ever looked at a manger scene and noticed how sometimes the animals are tucked away in the back? or maybe not even facing the newborn King? I don't understand why. They were just as important to Baby Jesus as the shepherds and wise men. I honestly believe that they rejoiced with the angels when He was born.
What about the fact that they remind us that Jesus was born in a lowly manger when He could have been born in a palace? Jesus meets us where we are at. He doesn't dangle a Krispy Kreme doughnut in our faces to follow him to his palace before revealing the good news. We receive blessings and comfort in places we might not think he may be. I'm sure that cattle stall stunk like our sins do, but God chose that path to reveal what He is willing to do to gain our trust in Him.
Those farm animals knew who was taking up residence in their space. I'm sure they comforted Mary while she gave birth in a place that wasn't exactly sanitary. My understanding is it wasn't very cold in Bethlehem, but those animals would have provided warmth if they had to. They probably snuck in a lick to show compassion.
What about the donkey that got them there? Mary couldn't have walked that distance. He was a part of the special delivery. Carrying Mary and The King of Kings with gentleness was his purpose and he deserves a view of that sweet baby. A donkey brought Him to His birthplace and carried Him in His last days before dying on the cross for our sins.
What about your animals? If they were in Bethlehem around that manger what do you think they would be doing?
Merry Christmas,
Manda
