October 19

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: — Luke 2:10 BSB

The night Jesus was born was a night like no other.

Outwardly, it didn’t seem extraordinary. There was no grand display. In fact, the birth of the Son of God was one of the quietest events of the night.

The only glimpse of glory was seen by the shepherds as they watched over their flocks. An angel appeared to them, announcing the miraculous birth, and then a host of angels filled the sky, singing the first Christmas song. The shepherds hurried into Bethlehem to find the newborn Savior, but what they found was simple and humble. In a manger, wrapped in cloth, the child slept.

This is how the kingdom of heaven began on earth—quietly, without fanfare. That’s often how God’s kingdom grows. It begins within us in the form of a small wish, and over time, it grows into a beautiful life.