“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped Him in cloths and placed Him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” Luke 2:6-7
When we think of Christmas, our minds often fill with images of glowing lights, gifts, and joyous celebrations. But there is a profound truth that we should all step back and consider this time of year.
Extraordinary Humility.
Jesus Christ came into the world not as a King, as the world thought and expected but the Word became flesh surrounded by animals in the most humbling beginnings.
READ “A CHRISTMAS STORY: THE ULTIMATE LESSON IN LEADERSHIP”
Most of us read that story and don’t think a lot about it but consider how important those details are? The most powerful man on the planet, the Ruler of the Heavens was not born in a palace surrounded by wealth and splendor but Jesus Christ was born in a manger—a feeding trough for animals. His parents weren’t wealthy but common individuals given an uncommon purpose.
None of this was an accident or an oversight but done intentionally for all of us to recognize and consider. The humble beginnings of the greatest leader ever to walk the planet sent a message to all of us. Greatness and purpose has nothing to do with status or wealth or power.
It has everything to do with serving others, encouraging others and loving others.
Humility and Christmas
The humble beginnings of Christ calls us to shift our focus from materialism to connection. Rather than fighting the lines to get that perfect gift, consider giving the most important gift we can give others…our time and attention.
As we enter the next year, why not continue on this journey? The humility displayed by Jesus in His birth never stopped. When tempted in the wilderness, He could have turned the stone into bread. As He labored in Gethsemane, He could have summoned a host of angels to His rescue. When mocked on The Cross, He could have silenced the jeers by coming down.
What He could have done had nothing to do with His purpose. Just as Christ was born into humility, He suffered and died in the most humiliating way for us.
Think about that!
His purpose was an exchange…His life for yours.
This life of humility turned the world upside down and it’s never been the same.
Death became life…suffering produced joy and wrath brought peace…Peace on Earth and Good Will Towards Men.
Merry Christmas and God Bless each of you.
This article originally appeared here.
Dr. Travis Yates retired as a commander with a large municipal police department after 30 years of service. He is the author of “The Courageous Police Leader: A Survival Guide for Combating Cowards, Chaos & Lies.” His risk management and leadership seminars have been taught to thousands of professionals across the world. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy with a Doctorate Degree in Strategic Leadership and the CEO of the Courageous Police Leadership Alliance.
