This simple nativity is made of wood, it really highlights the wonder of the worshippers around the King in the crib.
Two of the shepherds have mouths open – at least one gaping with awe and wonder. Why would this prophesied King be born here? And why were *we* invited? Lowly shepherds, often neglected in those times, were visited by angels to come and witness the King of the universe!
It reminds us that we too, are invited to witness and worship the King. We shouldn’t be – we deserve death & judgment – but this very King was born as a human in these meagre digs to die & pay for us!
When you know the power of this reality, you immediately notice something else about this nativity: not one of them is bowing to the King. That is the first & normal reaction when someone meets the King – He is worthy of true worship – we should desire to bow to Him.
We can see that the animals are prostrate – reminding us that even if humans refuse to worship Jesus, the stones will cry out…the universe simply *has* to worship its creator!
The Magi (wise men) look very pleased, all wearing their crowns – a visual cue to encourage us to give ours up. It is impossible to worship the King, while wearing your own crown…either He is King or you are. May we lay down our crowns, our self sufficiency, our pride, our plans, our revenge, our religion – everything – at the feet of the King.
Then the angels…many nativities only feature one – but not enough for this set. While the truth is there were (and are) hosts of angels worshipping the glorious King, in this scene at least one is captured mid song. If only we would follow suit… Thankfully we can see the third shepherd looks like he is joining in – hopefully like us this season!
Not sure if it is intentional, but Jesus has a red smudge on his face – is it reminds of His mums kiss? She has a heart shaped mouth, reminding us of her motherly love of Jesus, but more than that – her humble obedience to God. Again a reminder that is our due to the one who gave us life and gave up His to pay for all our mistakes.
#thankYouJesus
