The Setting of the Story
The Christmas story takes place over 2,000 years ago in a small town called Bethlehem, located in ancient Judea, which is now part of modern-day Israel. But how did we get to this wonderful night? Let's look at the events leading up to the birth of Jesus.
The Journey of Mary and Joseph
- Mary and Joseph: Mary was a young woman who was engaged to a kind man named Joseph. One day, Mary received an extraordinary message from an angel named Gabriel, who told her that she would have a special baby. This baby would be the Son of God and would be named Jesus.
- The Journey to Bethlehem: When Mary was close to having her baby, the ruler of the land, Emperor Augustus, ordered that everyone return to their hometowns to be counted. Since Joseph was from Bethlehem, he and Mary had to make a long journey there. They traveled a great distance, and Mary rode on a donkey because she was very pregnant.
- The Challenges of Travel: The journey was not easy. They faced many difficulties such as:
- Rough, bumpy roads
- Weather changes
- Finding places to rest
Arriving in Bethlehem
When Mary and Joseph finally reached Bethlehem, they found it crowded with people who had come for the census. All the inns and guesthouses were full, and there was nowhere for them to stay.
- Asking for Shelter: Joseph knocked on many doors, but everyone turned them away. Finally, one kind innkeeper offered them a place to stay in his stable, a shelter for animals.
The Birth of Jesus
In the stable, surrounded by animals and the soft glow of candlelight, Mary gave birth to her baby boy. This moment was very special and filled with love.
The First Visitors
- Mary’s Love: Mary wrapped Jesus in swaddling clothes, which are strips of cloth, and laid him in a manger – a feeding trough for animals. This was a humble beginning for someone so special!
- The Angels and the Shepherds: On the same night, angels appeared to shepherds who were watching over their flocks in the fields. The angels brought exciting news:
- "Do not be afraid! We bring you good news of great joy! Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born; He is Christ the Lord!"
The shepherds were amazed and decided to go to Bethlehem to see the newborn baby.
The Visit of the Shepherds
The shepherds hurried to the stable, and when they saw Jesus, they were filled with joy. They praised God for the miraculous event they had witnessed.
What the Shepherds Did Next
- Telling Everyone: After visiting Jesus, the shepherds couldn’t keep the good news to themselves. They went out and shared what they had seen with everyone they met, spreading joy and excitement across the land.
- Lessons from the Shepherds: From the shepherds, we learn the importance of sharing good news and spreading joy. They were ordinary people, yet they played a significant role in the Christmas story.
The Visit of the Wise Men
Not long after Jesus was born, something spectacular happened in the sky. A bright star appeared, guiding wise men from the East, often called the Magi or Three Wise Men. They were learned men who studied the stars and recognized that this star signified the birth of a great king.
The Gifts of the Wise Men
- Following the Star: The wise men traveled a long distance, following the star to find Jesus.
- Bringing Gifts: When they reached the stable, they presented three precious gifts to the baby Jesus:
- Gold: A symbol of royalty, recognizing Jesus as a king.
- Frankincense: An incense that was used in worship, showing that Jesus is divine and worthy of worship.
- Myrrh: A spice used for anointing, foreshadowing the suffering Jesus would endure later in life.
The Importance of the Gifts
Each gift had a special meaning, indicating who Jesus was and the role He would play in the world.
- A King: Gold recognized Jesus as the King of Kings.
- God: Frankincense represented His divine nature.
- A Savior: Myrrh symbolized His sacrifice for humanity.
The Significance of the Christmas Story
The birth of Jesus is not just a story about a baby but is a celebration of hope, love, and joy. There are many important lessons for children and families to learn from this story.
Key Lessons from the Christmas Story
1. Love and Compassion: The story teaches us about love, as Mary and Joseph cared for each other and for their baby.
2. Hope: Jesus' birth brings hope to the world, reminding us that light shines in darkness.
3. Joy in Giving: The gifts of the wise men show the importance of giving and sharing with others.
4. Faith: The shepherds and wise men trusted in God’s message and followed it, teaching us to have faith.
5. Community: The story reminds us to celebrate together with family and friends.
Celebrating Christmas Today
Today, families around the world celebrate Christmas in various ways. Here are some common traditions:
- Nativity Scenes: Many people set up nativity scenes in their homes, depicting the birth of Jesus with figures of Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, the shepherds, and the wise men.
- Singing Christmas Carols: Caroling is a joyful way to share the story of Jesus through song.
- Giving Gifts: Exchanging gifts is a way to reflect the gifts given to Jesus and to show love to one another.
- Attending Church Services: Many families attend special church services to remember and celebrate the birth of Jesus.
Creating Family Traditions
- Read the Christmas Story: Reading the story of Jesus' birth together as a family can help keep the true meaning of Christmas alive.
- Volunteer: Helping those in need during the holiday season is a wonderful way to share the love and joy of Christmas.
- Make Decorations: Creating ornaments or decorations that represent the nativity can be a fun and meaningful activity.
Conclusion
The birth of Jesus Christmas story for children is a beautiful tale that teaches valuable lessons about love, hope, and joy. As families gather to celebrate Christmas, they can cherish the story of Jesus’ humble beginnings in a stable and the joy it brings to people around the world. By sharing this story and its lessons, we keep the spirit of Christmas alive in our hearts and in our families for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the main characters in the birth of Jesus story?
The main characters include Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, the shepherds, the Wise Men, and angels.
Where was Jesus born?
Jesus was born in Bethlehem, in a stable because there was no room at the inn.
Why is the birth of Jesus celebrated on Christmas?
Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, who Christians believe is the Son of God and the Savior of the world.
What did the angels say to the shepherds?
The angels told the shepherds, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.'
What gifts did the Wise Men bring to Jesus?
The Wise Men brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to honor Jesus.
How did Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem?
Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem by walking, and Mary rode on a donkey because she was pregnant.
