One of my favorite symbolic lessons in the Nativity is who was there: both wise men and shepherds. Sure, they came at different times and to different places, but they still came. And both were accepted and welcomed!

People from the two ends of the social spectrum — Kingly advisors and animal watchers! Yet, cultural status and human standing weren’t an issue, because it wasn’t about them. It was about the baby. It was about the Messiah. Jesus. So who they were didn’t matter; who he was is all that mattered.

And it’s still that way today! No matter who we are – whether high or low in the human hierarchy – who he is enables “whosoever will” to come. God welcomes all who believe! What a comforting thought to know the ground at the manger is completely level.