He Is for All Mankind

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Luke 2:10 

The Nativity Story is a film adaptation of the birth of Jesus which hit movie theaters in December 2006. I did not see it when it hit those theaters. I was aware of it. I was even interested in it. But I did not see it then. I did not see it when it was released on DVD a few months later, either. I would not see this movie until my congregation in California watched it together during a fellowship night in 2017.

I then saw the beautiful thing that happens in the final moments of the film.

In those final moments, the angel has announced Jesus birth to the shepherds, and the shepherds come to the stable to find the baby Jesus in Mary’s arms. One shepherd approached in wonder. Slowly he reaches out to touch, but then pulls back as he judges himself unworthy. Seeing this, Mary pushes Jesus forward, then tells the shepherd, “He is for all mankind. We are each given a gift.”

Now we do not find that exact statement in the biblical account of these events. But we do find that idea there. Every element of the biblical nativity story tells us that Jesus is for all mankind. The modest Galilean couple, the stable, and the manger all say that Jesus is a gift given to each of us. The fact that Jesus was born this way rather than the way kings are normally born shows that this king is approachable.

In fact, Jesus would establish His approachability Himself. In Matthew 11:28, the adult Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This is one of many times when Jesus says all or any or everyone can come to Him. He is indeed approachable. Let us then do what that shepherd started to do. Let us do what Mary encouraged that shepherd to do. Let us approach Him.

PRAYER

Thank you, Jesus, for being so approachable. You are indeed the greatest of gifts. We come to You in this season with awe and gratitude and joy.

Doug McCoy is a Lincoln Village native who has recently returned home after ten years in California and joined TCND staff as small groups pastor.