The King Who Came for Us All, Luke 2:6-7

As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, we reflect on the humble beginnings of Jesus Christ, born not in a palace but in a stable, and the unique people who came to honor Him. The story of Jesus’ birth is more than a tale of a baby born in a manger; it is the fulfillment of prophecy and the announcement of a King, welcomed by the lowly and the wise alike.

The Birth of the Savior

Luke 2:6-7 tells us, “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.” The King of kings, born into poverty, came into this world without pomp or ceremony, yet His arrival would change the world forever.

This humble birth was not announced to kings and rulers, but to shepherds, simple men tending their flocks at night. The angel of the Lord appeared to them, saying, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem to see this child, glorifying and praising God.

Not long after, wise men from the east arrived, having followed a star to Bethlehem. “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2). These Magi, likely scholars and astrologers, traveled a great distance to honor a King they did not know but believed in through the sign of a star.

This story of lowly shepherds and wise men—two groups on opposite ends of the social spectrum—coming to worship the Christ child speaks of the inclusiveness of Jesus’ kingship. He came not only for the rich and learned but for the poor and humble. He came for us all.

A Historic Parallel: A King’s Humble Reception

Many centuries ago, in 1415, King Henry V of England faced an extraordinary moment in his reign. Leading his army against the French at the Battle of Agincourt, Henry found himself outnumbered, surrounded by an enemy force that could easily overpower his smaller, exhausted army. Yet, through skill and perhaps divine favor, Henry’s forces won the battle.

When the king returned to England after the stunning victory, the reception was not a grand triumph filled with feasts and royal celebrations. Instead, King Henry insisted that the focus of his return be one of humility and thanksgiving. He and his army entered London in a solemn procession, not on horseback, but on foot, walking quietly through the streets, giving thanks to God for the victory. They did not claim the glory for themselves but recognized that it belonged to God alone.

Like Henry, who chose humility after a great victory, Jesus’ birth was an act of great humility. Though He was the Son of God, He was born not in a palace but in a manger. His arrival was announced to simple shepherds, and though He was a King, He did not seek earthly glory. This King, like Henry V, entered quietly and humbly, yet His victory over sin and death would be far greater than any military conquest.

The Lesson of the Shepherds and the Magi

The story of the shepherds and the Magi reminds us that Christ’s birth was a gift for all people, from every walk of life. The shepherds, lowly and overlooked, were the first to hear the good news of the Messiah’s birth. They were invited to witness the arrival of the Savior, showing that God’s love reaches even the least among us. In contrast, the Magi, men of wisdom and influence, were also drawn to this humble King, offering Him gifts fit for royalty: gold, frankincense, and myrrh ([[Matthew 2:11]]).

This meeting of the lowly and the learned at the feet of Jesus shows the breadth of His kingdom. It is not for the elite or the privileged, but for everyone who seeks Him. Just as King Henry V walked humbly in victory, so we are called to approach the manger with humility, recognizing that we all come equally before Christ.

A Call to Worship and Humility

This Christmas, let us remember that Jesus came for us all—rich and poor, wise and simple. As we reflect on the shepherds and the Magi, let us also come to Him in humility, laying down our pride, our fears, and our burdens, just as the Magi laid their gifts before the King.

As the angel proclaimed to the shepherds, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). Jesus’ birth brought peace to the world and hope to all people, and it is this peace and hope that we celebrate today.

May this Christmas season remind us that the King of kings came in humility, that we might approach Him without fear, receiving the greatest gift of all—salvation through Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, into the world in such a humble way. Help us to approach Him as the shepherds and the Magi did, in faith and humility, knowing that He came for us all. May we be reminded this Christmas of the great love You have shown us through the gift of Your Son, and may we share that love with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Hazel S