When a baby is on its way, whether by birth or adoption, a room is prepared and all that the baby will need is gathered. The needs may be barely met or abundantly met, but they are met. Parents, grandparents, and other interested persons welcome the baby. Provision, protection, along with love and nurturing are given to this little person.

God did that on the night His Son was born”¦in a stable”¦in the middle of the night”¦in a town far from home.

(NASB) Luke 2:6 “While they were there (Bethlehem), the days were completed for her to give birth.”

Babies are born ““ it is a natural process. But for the mother it is a pain-filled joy”¦husbands are included in this event today and even grandparents may be present as the baby is “˜pushed”™ into the world.

Think about this: Mary endured the pain and the joy of natural childbirth.

(NASB) Luke 2:7 “And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

Birth is the culmination of the conception of a baby.

In (NASB) Psalm 139:14-16a “I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;

16 Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;”¦”

You are not a “˜mistake”™, you are known by God ““ He is not unprepared or surprised at anything you say or do. That is why He sent His Son into the world on that night so long ago ““ He knew you would need a Savior.

What appears to be a negative ““ there was no room for them in the inn ““ can be seen as God”™s protection. Think about it: Mary had privacy of birthing her child ““ in the stable. She had protection from many hearing her during the birth. She and the baby were kept warm by the animals that were in that stable.

Mary had come prepared ““ she had cloths in which to wrap her Son. God provided a baby bed in that feeding trough for animals. God had provided a place of seclusion, privacy and warmth.

As you live each day in this year of 2009, consider all that God has done to protect you, to give you privacy, and to provide for your needs.