Philippians 2:6-8, "... Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death - even death on a cross!"

Luke 2:4-7, "So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 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."

At the time of Jesus' birth, Mary and Joseph had just made a difficult journey (without the benefit of iPads, Google maps, or comfortable cars). Poor Mary! Imagine hour after hour riding a donkey while nine months pregnant! And, to top it off, all they wanted to do was get some rest, yet every inn along the way was full.

Did Mary patiently wait outside while Joseph spoke to the innkeeper, trusting that he, and of course God, would provide? Or was she by his side saying, "Do something, Joseph, we have to find a place to stay!!" Scripture doesn't describe their interactions or attitude, but we see that God allowed Jesus to leave the splendor and comfort of Heaven to be born in a manger! The King of Kings was literally laid in a smelly feeding trough. And He didn't grow up in a prestigious household or palace, as you might imagine, but a humble, small household.

Even in this, Jesus was obedient. He stayed faithful despite all the temptations He faced throughout His life and made the ultimate sacrifice with His death on the cross.  Jesus took the greatest demotion in history to give us the ultimate promotion - eternal life in Heaven.  His coming and the gift of salvation we have through faith in Him, is the reason we sing "Joy to the World, the Lord is Come." Therefore, today, rejoice over your promotion!

Today when you hear a Christmas song like "Joy to the World," let the words sink into your heart in a new way. Let it be a moment of worship as you recognize all that Jesus has done for you.

Jesus, I adore You. Thank You so much for taking the greatest demotion to give me the ultimate promotion. Forgive me of the complaints I've had over little things; change my heart! I lay the burdens I carry before You and lean on Your guidance. I praise You! Amen.