Luke 2:8- 12 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And it shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manager.
The intricacies of the Lord's plans never cease to amaze me. It is said he numbers every hair on our head. (Matthew 10:30) His wisdom is endless and greater than we can fathom. (James 3:17 KJV) "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.
God knew the inn would be full and that Jesus would be born in a manger, not into worldly riches. He knew that the riches of the world would not be important or necessary as money and wealth do not produce salvation. True riches are stored up in Heaven. God knew that if Jesus was born humbly in a manger he would be unmistakably identifiable. "Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." You will know him when you see him because of this.
The Lord set Jesus apart. He set him apart for a purpose so great that he would be able to overcome the grave and save the world. We too have been born with a predetermined God-given purpose. Psalm 4:3 You can be sure of this: The LORD set apart the godly for himself. The LORD will answer when I call to him. (Ephesians 2:10 ESV) says "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."
Lord,
Thank you that you know us so well. We could search near and far to the ends of the earth and find no one who knows us better. You formed us in our mother's womb. You created us with a purpose and ordained our steps. Lord help us to walk in them with confidence. Remind us we can walk hand-in-hand with you as you will lead us where ever we must go. Guide us while we seek. Open our ears so we listen. Clean our eyes so we can see. Help us to love as you love. Help us to be like you are and let us give thanks for the good tidings and great joy that you bring. In Jesus' name. Amen