Joseph took Mary with him to Bethlehem because the Romans wanted to count everyone. Mary went with him as she had promised to marry him, and she was pregnant.
While they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. It was her first child, a boy named Jesus. She wrapped him in cloth and laid him in a manger because all the rooms were full.
That night, some shepherds were watching their sheep in the nearby fields. Suddenly, a bright light from God shone around them, and they were afraid. An angel appeared and said, “Don’t be afraid. I bring you good news that will bring joy to many. Today, in the town of David, a special baby has been born— the one who will bring hope and peace to people. You will find him wrapped in cloth and lying in a manger.”
Then more angels appeared, praising God and saying, “Peace and blessings to those who live with kindness.”
The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem and found Mary, Joseph, and the baby—just as the angel had said. They shared what they had seen, and everyone was amazed.
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Discussion questions.
- Where was the baby born, and why were Mary and Joseph there?
- Have you ever been in a simple or unexpected place but still felt happy and thankful?
- The angels said the baby brings hope and peace. What does hope or peace from God mean to you?