Characters in the Nativity Story
The nativity story is rich with characters, each playing an important role in the events surrounding the birth of Jesus. Here are the main characters you will meet in this wonderful tale:
1. Mary: Mary is the mother of Jesus. She was a young woman who received a message from the angel Gabriel, telling her that she would give birth to the Son of God. Mary is known for her faith and obedience.
2. Joseph: Joseph is Mary's husband. He was a kind and caring man who supported Mary through her pregnancy. When he learned about Mary's miraculous pregnancy, he listened to an angel who reassured him that he should take Mary as his wife.
3. Jesus: Jesus is the central figure of the nativity story. He is the Son of God, born in a humble stable. His birth is celebrated as a gift to the world, bringing hope and joy.
4. The Angels: Angels play a significant role in the nativity story. They bring messages from God and announce the birth of Jesus to the shepherds.
5. The Shepherds: The shepherds were ordinary people who were watching over their flocks when they received the news of Jesus' birth. They were among the first to visit the newborn.
6. The Wise Men: Also known as the Magi, the wise men traveled from far away, guided by a bright star, to bring gifts to the newborn king. They represent the idea that Jesus came for everyone, no matter where they are from.
7. The Animals: Although they may not speak, the animals in the stable, such as donkeys and sheep, were present during Jesus' birth and added to the humble setting.
The Journey to Bethlehem
The nativity story begins with a journey. Mary and Joseph lived in a town called Nazareth, but they had to travel to Bethlehem because of a decree from the Roman Emperor. He wanted to count the people in his empire, which meant everyone had to return to their hometowns.
Why They Had to Travel
- Census: The Roman Emperor wanted to know how many people lived in his kingdom, so he ordered a census.
- Family Heritage: Joseph's family originated from Bethlehem, so he had to take Mary there, even though she was very pregnant.
The journey to Bethlehem was not easy. Mary and Joseph traveled a long distance, likely on foot or with the help of a donkey. Imagine how tired and worried they must have felt as they made their way to a busy town filled with many other travelers!
The Birth of Jesus
When Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, they found that there was no room for them at the inn. This meant they had to seek shelter elsewhere.
Finding a Place to Stay
- No Room at the Inn: The inns were full because many people were also there for the census.
- A Humble Stable: Mary and Joseph found a stable where animals were kept. It was not fancy, but it was a safe place for Mary to give birth.
In this humble stable, surrounded by animals, Mary gave birth to Jesus. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, which is a feeding trough for animals. This simple and modest beginning was a sign that Jesus came to bring hope to everyone, no matter their circumstances.
The Announcement of the Birth
The news of Jesus' birth was so special that it was shared not only with Mary and Joseph but also with others. The angels played a crucial role in this announcement.
The Angels Visit the Shepherds
One night, as shepherds were watching their flocks in the fields, an angel appeared to them. The angel brought good news and said:
- "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people."
The angel told them that a Savior had been born in Bethlehem and that they would find him wrapped in cloth and lying in a manger. Suddenly, a whole choir of angels appeared, praising God and singing about peace on earth.
Shepherds Visit Jesus
Excited by the news, the shepherds hurried to Bethlehem to see the baby Jesus. When they found him, they rejoiced and spread the word about what they had seen. The shepherds serve as an important reminder that Jesus came for everyone, even the most ordinary among us.
The Visit of the Wise Men
Some time after Jesus' birth, wise men from the East saw a bright star in the sky that signified the birth of a new king. They decided to follow the star to find this special child.
Gifts for the King
The wise men brought three gifts for Jesus:
1. Gold: A gift fit for a king, representing Jesus' royal status.
2. Frankincense: A sweet-smelling incense used in worship, symbolizing Jesus' divinity.
3. Myrrh: An oil used for anointing and burial, foreshadowing the suffering Jesus would endure.
The wise men followed the star until it led them to the place where Jesus was. They bowed down and worshipped him, presenting their gifts. This moment emphasizes that Jesus is not only a king but also worthy of honor and respect.
Lessons from the Nativity Story
The nativity story is more than just an account of Jesus' birth; it teaches valuable lessons that children can learn and carry with them throughout their lives.
Key Lessons
- Love and Kindness: Mary and Joseph showed love and support for each other during a challenging time. We should always be kind and help those in need.
- Faith and Trust: Mary trusted in God's plan, even when things were uncertain. We can learn to have faith and trust that everything will work out in the end.
- Joy in Giving: The gifts from the wise men show the joy of giving to others. We can find happiness in sharing our blessings, just like the wise men did.
- Inclusiveness: The shepherds and wise men represent that Jesus came for everyone, regardless of their background. We should treat everyone with love and respect.
Conclusion
The nativity story is a timeless tale that captures the hearts of children and adults alike. It teaches us about the miraculous birth of Jesus and the values of love, kindness, and faith. As families gather to celebrate Christmas, sharing the nativity story can help children understand the true meaning of the holiday.
Remember, the story of Jesus' birth is not just about the events that took place in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago; it is a story of hope, joy, and the promise of love that continues to inspire us today. May we all carry the spirit of the nativity story in our hearts and spread its message of peace and goodwill to all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nativity story about?
The Nativity story tells the tale of the birth of Jesus Christ, highlighting events such as Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, the birth in a manger, and the visit of the shepherds and wise men.
Who are the main characters in the Nativity story?
The main characters include Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, the shepherds, the wise men, and angels. Each plays a significant role in the story of Jesus' birth.
Why is the Nativity story important for children?
The Nativity story is important for children as it teaches them about the values of love, kindness, and the spirit of giving, while also introducing them to significant cultural and religious traditions.
How can parents share the Nativity story with their children?
Parents can share the Nativity story through books, storytelling, Christmas plays, or by creating a Nativity scene at home, making it interactive and engaging for children.
What symbols are commonly associated with the Nativity story?
Common symbols include the star of Bethlehem, the manger, angels, shepherds, and the wise men, each representing different aspects of the story and its significance.
Are there any songs related to the Nativity story that children can learn?
Yes, there are many songs related to the Nativity story, such as 'Away in a Manger', 'O Little Town of Bethlehem', and 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing', which help children connect with the story through music.
