Gentle Mary Laid Her Child
"Gentle Mary Laid Her Child," a gentle hymn of
Christmas, reminds us of each element in the Christmas story through its lovely
verse. It is sometimes listed in the hymnals as a children's hymn.
Mary, the manger, angels, shepherds, wise men-each is
briefly mentioned in tribute to the glorious incarnation. And yet, in its short
verses, the hymn speaks not only of the baby born that Christmas day, but also
of the King of Glory. Because of Jesus' miraculous birth, the King is no longer
a stranger to the world; Instead, the world now praises his holy name.
Devotional:
With its longing for glamour and glory, our culture
doesn't seem to understand humility very well. We talk about humility as though
it were a good thing, but it seems to be the proud and powerful who really get
ahead. From business to politics to entertainment, it's those who push their
way into the spotlight who get our praise.
Jesus' humble birth stands in stark contrast to all this.
While we yearn for better homes, he was born in a smelly stable. And while we
seek the attention of the popular, God's angels sought the attention of simple
shepherds-people who barely registered on the social ladder of their day.
"Gentle Mary laid her Child lowly in a manger."
And so began the life of God on earth. Such a humble beginning that the
songwriter went on to ask, "can He be the Savior?" And surely the
people of Jesus' day asked this question too. How could a baby in a manger have
more power than King Herod, who ruled from nearby palaces and fortresses?
Yet in his humility, Jesus did have more power than
Herod. And in a culture where business gurus are admired and superstars are
praised today, he’s still the humble King who really deserves our adoration.
In this Christmas season, let's reflect on Christ's
humility. And when we feel tempted to seek praise for ourselves, or to give our
praise to another, let's remember our carol's concluding words about the humble
baby: "Praise His Name in all the earth, hail the King of glory!"
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