“And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” Luke 2:7
As I gazed into the eyes of my almost six month old grandson; I wondered if babies cry when they are born because it hurts? I understand crying initiates the breathing process and we will never know for certain; if there is pain involved for the baby, because duh, babies can’t talk. That’s probably a good thing.
Jesus came into the world to seek and to save that which was lost. Man chose to sin in the garden of Eden, resulting in broken fellowship with God the Father. The only way to restore the irrevocable damage; was to send a Savior into the world. And there He was; cradled by His virgin mother, gazing into the face of Jesus, the Son of God. Could she have realized; this baby staring up at her, was her Savior and Redeemer? His first cry; would not be His last.
Our Creator would not allow man’s sin to separate us forever. This redemption plan was in place even before the foundation of the earth. It’s hard to comprehend Mary drying the tears of God Himself. One day she would weep over His cruel and unusual punishment; not for His own sins, but for hers. So much for a young woman to grasp.
Fast forward thirty three years later and picture with me; this same Jesus, being beaten beyond recognition; nailed to a cross and a thorny crown being pressed upon His head. Jesus cried out in anguish, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Oh, how He loves you and me!
From the first cry, till the last; He went about doing His Father’s business. He taught. He healed the sick. He admonished the sinners. He loved the unlovely. He performed many miracles; all for the honor and glory of His Father God. He accomplished the perfect will of His Father. Oh what a Savior! Then, He willingly died for you, for your sins. His last cry sounded like, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?… Into Your hands, I commit My Spirit.” His first and last cry brought eternal life to you and me.
Prayer in Motion:
Lord, may I be more concerned about accomplishing Your will, than any other task this Christmas season. Every time I hear a baby cry; may I praise You God for sending Your baby boy, Jesus into this broken world. From His first cry to His last, He came for me. I bow before You Jesus, to worship you my Lord and my King. In Your precious Name I pray. Amen
