Tuesday, December 20, 2016

CHRISTMAS CRIB

I own a Christmas book with pictures of different nativity sets from around the world. Each beautiful creche reflects facial features and costumes indigenous to the country of the artist.

The manger scene from Mexico shows Mary and Joseph with dark skin and the lovely brown eyes of the Mexican people.

The one from Sweden portrays Mary with blond hair and fair skin, while the set from Nigeria features dark-skinned people, adorned with ornate African headwear.

The Japanese Nativity is delicate and decidedly Asian. The most accurate of all is the one from Israel. It shows the figures with handsome Jewish features.



This suggests we desire identity with God. When we see ourselves reflected in Jesus' humanity, then his life, death, and resurrection take on personal meaning.

Our need for Emmanuel--God with us--is shown clearly in Christmas art. Accuracy in depicting the manger scene is not as important as the message: God willingly became one of us.

Praise him for that!

Do you have a Nativity Set displayed in your home this Christmas? Use it as a place for your family to remember the meaning of this special holiday.




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