The story of Christmas begins with a child—a miraculous birth that changed the course of history. Through Jesus’ humble arrival, we see God’s plan to bring hope and redemption to the world. In the story of Christ’s birth, we find a profound reminder of how to reconnect with peace, joy, and faith—by embracing the humility and simplicity of a child.

Isaiah 9:6 reads, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” The arrival of Jesus as a child carries powerful lessons that are just as relevant today as they were over 2,000 years ago.

What does Christmas teach us?

God Values Humility

Jesus’ arrival as a baby wasn’t an accident; it was a deliberate act of humility. The King of Kings didn’t enter the world as a conquering ruler but as a helpless infant. This act reminds us that we, too, must come to God with the humility and dependence of a child.

In Matthew 18:3, Jesus says, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Childlike faith isn’t about being naive; it’s about recognizing your need for God and trusting Him wholeheartedly.

Begin each day with a prayer of surrender, saying, “God, I need You today.” Take a moment to acknowledge the areas in your life where you feel helpless and invite Him to guide you through them. Simplify your spiritual life by focusing on the essentials. Start with gratitude for His blessings, nurture trust in His plan, and engage in heartfelt prayer. Release the pressure to have all the answers and instead, embrace a posture of reliance on Him. This year, gather your family to read the Christmas story in Luke 2 together. Reflect on God’s incredible plan and the gift of Jesus, creating a moment of childlike wonder that draws you closer to the true meaning of the season.

God Loves Humanity

The incarnation—God becoming man—is a mystery that defies human comprehension. Hebrews 2:14-15 tells us that Jesus became human to break the power of sin and death, offering us freedom. His birth as a baby shows us that God understands our struggles and walks with us through them.

When life feels overwhelming, remember that Jesus’ humanity means He truly gets it. His divine strength is available to you because He has walked where you walk. Reflect on the meaning of Emmanuel, “God with us,” during challenging moments. Remind yourself that you’re not alone. Meditate on the names of Jesus from Isaiah 9:6 and consider how He’s your “Wonderful Counselor” when you need wisdom, your “Prince of Peace” when anxiety creeps in, and your “Mighty God” when you feel weak. Write down one area of your life where you need Jesus’ intervention, and pray specifically for His presence and peace.

Peace on Earth starts at Home

The angels proclaimed “peace on earth” at Jesus’ birth, and He is the ultimate source of peace. Yet, the busyness of the holidays can often rob us of that peace. By focusing on the true meaning of Christmas, you can create a calm and joyful atmosphere in your home.

Jesus’ arrival as a child also reminds us to prioritize the faith of the little ones in our lives. This Christmas, take time to invest in the spiritual growth of your children or young family members.

Create a family tradition centered on Christ, such as singing carols or attending a Christmas Eve service. Teach your children or grandchildren about the significance of Jesus’ birth in a way they can understand. Use a nativity set or read from a children’s Bible. Set aside time each evening to unplug from screens and share a moment of prayer or gratitude as a family. Let this become a sanctuary of peace in the midst of the holiday rush.

This Christmas, find peace by looking to the Child in the manger, Jesus. His humility, humanity, and message of hope invite you to approach God with childlike faith, embrace the mystery of His love, and share His peace with those around you.

Remember, celebrating Christmas isn’t just about traditions or festivities; it’s about celebrating Christ Himself. As you gather with loved ones and reflect on His birth, let the Prince of Peace reign in your heart and your home. You’ll discover that the greatest gift of the season is one you can carry with you all year long.