Join me in a devotional Study of the Birth of Christ. You can write your own devotionals by Summarizing, Reflecting and Responding to each focus verse.  See the verses of study in The flipbook above – “In the Fullness of Time” and download the templates below for your written study.

Day 7
Context: Luke 2: 1-20

“And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7 ESV

Even though Jesus was born in a place housing animals, Mary still took care to wrap him in cloths, securing Him in her love. She used what was available, making a feeding trough his bed.  The signs of swaddling cloths and a manger speak of how God wraps us in His love, even in lowly and adverse circumstances. He holds us fast. Jesus was held fast in His Father’s love from birth and in death. He was wrapped at birth and wrapped at death (linen cloths).This sign was especially reassuring to the lowly shepherds; given first glimpse at the One who sets us free from our unrighteous acts (rags). ( Isaiah 64:6)

Lord, I will hold fast to you and your promises, for you have been with me from birth and will secure me in your love at death. Thank you, that through faith, I am eternally kept in your love. No one can snatch me from the arms of your love. (John 10: 28-30)

Cross References: Hebrews 2:14, 2 Corinthians 8:9, John 7:42, Luke 2:12,
John 19:40, Matthew 8:20, 2 Kings 18:6

Key Words: swaddling – Strong’s – 4683 (sparganoo) – The verb expresses her deliberate care for the newborn Jesus and becomes, by angelic decree, the identifying “sign” for the shepherds. (biblehub.com)
manger – Strong’s – 5336 (phatne) – a feeding trough

Christmas Devotional Templates
Download this template for your study.