Devotionals

Nobodies

by Mark Trodd
12/11/19
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The first Christmas is a story about nobodies who became part of the greatest story ever told.  People like Mary and Joseph, Simeon, Anna, and the shepherds were nobodies in the world’s eyes, but God knew them by name and preserved their stories in the Gospels for our benefit.

God chose Mary and Joseph for their faithfulness and humility, not for their wealth and social status.  Jesus was born in a stable, because they were too poor to afford proper accommodation, at a time when rooms were in high demand.  God is not impressed by riches, social status or great achievements; but He notices the simple faith and humility of ordinary people who seek Him.

God invited some lowly shepherds to come and see the baby Jesus, not important dignitaries.  After the angels gave them directions, they went in haste to see the child.  They returned to their flocks rejoicing, amazed at all they had seen and heard. 

God noticed Simeon and Anna, two elderly people who’d been serving Him faithfully for decades.  When Jesus was being dedicated in the Temple, God gave them the privilege of meeting and holding His Son, the One who would bring salvation to His people, and to the whole world.  With the eyes of faith, they recognized who Jesus was, and told the parents and anyone else who would listen.  Most people ignored them, but Mary and Joseph marvelled at their words.

Meanwhile, in a distant land, some wealthy wise men were preparing to travel 1000 kms to Jerusalem – to honour the new King (Messiah).  They expected to find Him in the palace, but King Herod knew nothing about it.  A prophecy from the Bible pointed them to Bethlehem, but it was the nobodies who were living there that lead them to Jesus.  The wise men found Him living in a house with his parents, and gave Him their gifts. 

But King Herod’s paranoia forced the family to flee to Egypt.  Later, they returned to Nazareth because Bethlehem was unsafe.  Jesus grew up amongst nobodies, until it was time to begin His mission.

Jesus left the riches of heaven to live amongst us, so He understands how hard life can be.  He came to die for our sins, so that we could live and share the riches of Heaven with Him.  His resurrection showed that He had the power to deliver on His promises. 

The somebodies of this world despised Him as a nobody, but many nobodies embraced Him with all their hearts.  The somebodies often scoffed when He challenged their lifestyles and called them to humble themselves before God.  But many nobodies heard Him gladly, and found hope and forgiveness and peace, through His deeds and words. 

You may feel like a nobody in this world, but God knows you by name, and wants you to know Him.    Jesus said, “Ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened.” 

Wise men and women are still seeking Him and finding Him.  What about you?

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MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL