Nativity

The nativity scene represents the story of Jesus' birth, as described in the Gospels of Luke and Mathew. The Nativity story begins With Mary being visited by an angel. The angel tells Mary that she will have a baby and that this baby will be the son of G-d. When Mary is very far along, G-d tells Mary and Joseph to travel to Bethlehem. Once theY reach Bethlehem however, they are informed that there is no room left at the Inn, but a kind innkeeper offered them barn to sleep in, as seen in the picture. Mary, Joseph, and Jesus are portrayed with halos, representing purity. Also in the picture, is the star of Bethlehem. The star announced the Birth of the baby Jesus. The Wise Men read this sign and came to the barn with gifts, as seen in the picture. Another common aspect of the nativity scene are the shepherds and the livestock, coming to see Jesus.The wise men came to the barn after they were informed by an angel that a great leader was born.

The birth of Jesus is very important to the Christian faith. Jesus is seen as the Messiah, or Christ, a "divinely conceived son of G-d made human to teach the way to salvation for mankind,"(Christmas Origins and Customs). It relates to the doctrine of Incarnation. This doctrine states that G-d assumed human flesh and dwelled among mankind. This shows that G-d is active and compassionate. Another interesting aspect of the nativity story, is that Jesus was born in a barn. This appealed to the poor. The Nativity of Jesus is celebrated during Christmas. Christmas is a joyous celebration characterized by festive feasts and giving. During Christmas, nativity scenes are often set up outside churches or people's houses, as seen on the far right.

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