Jesus’ birth
According to the Bible, Jesus’ birth was announced to Mary by the Angel Gabriel, who agreed to God’s plan and to carry the Son of God. Mary was specifically chosen, as she was the Immaculate ConceptionThe belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was conceived free from original sin..
The angel said to her, “Don't be afraid, Mary; God has been gracious to you. You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.
The gospels state that Mary and Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem, as a census had been called and each was to return to their hometown. Due to the census, Bethlehem was full and Mary gave birth to the Son of God in a stable.
She gave birth to her first son, wrapped him in cloths and laid him in a manger—there was no room for them to stay in the inn.
Both Matthew and Luke’s Gospels tell of visitors to the newborn. In Matthew’s Gospel, the MagiThe three wise men, or three kings, who brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to Jesus when he was born. come to visit the new baby and bring him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh after following a star to find the child. These gifts are a sign of holiness and royalty – they are a sign that the baby is a king.
In Luke’s Gospel, the shepherds come to worship and praise the newborn child. The poor and humble shepherds show that Jesus came to serve and save all people from all races and backgrounds.
