176. “No Crib For a Bed” – Carols of Encouragement

Dec 17, 2024 | Podcast | 0 Comments

The third episode in our series, Carols of Encouragement, focuses on what some of us may have a difficult time embracing in this season: simplicity and surrender. But inside we’ll look at how God can use them for our good in any season of life, including the holiday season. This series is inspired by the timeless lyrics of biblically-based Christmas carols. Together, we’re reflecting on the profound truths hidden in these songs, discovering how they speak to our everyday struggles, and embracing the hope, peace, and joy that Christ brings. Even when there’s no crib for a bed!

No Crib For a Bed - Carols of Encouragement | manger scene with star above

Today’s carol, Away in a Manger, reminds us how God’s plans are perfect and oftentimes unexpected. How can the Savior of the world be born in a stable–a manger or a barn–with no crib for a bed? The Savior of the world is the greatest of royalty, and typically, when I think of royal babies, they have elaborate cribs, tucked inside breathtaking castles.

Not Jesus, however. God had different plans for His birth.

Luke 2:6-7 (NIV) states, “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.”

Click on the player above to listen to the full 14-minute episode.

Surrendering all we have, all we are, and all we expect leads us to discovering God’s greater plan.

I look at Jesus’ humble birth and nothing could be simpler. Sure, their circumstances were less than ideal, but Mary and Joseph didn’t focus on any of the external things that really didn’t matter. They focused on what was most important: Jesus. Is that what we do? Not only in our everyday lives, but during the holiday season? Do we focus on what’s most important?