Christ Is Born in Bethlehem

Did you know that Methodists used to be called “Swaddlers”? One of the first sermons preached by a Methodist in Ireland was based on the angel’s gospel word, “Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:12) Charles Wesley went on to write some 6,000 hymns on the birth of Christ, including “Hark, The Herald Angels Sing.”

In this hymn, Wesley begins not with the prophets, the journey to Bethlehem, or the search for a room. Wesley begins in the middle of the action. Charles Wesley offers his theological interpretation – “God and sinners reconciled.” “God and sinners reconciled” is a natural interpretation since this hymn was written within a year of Charles Wesley’s conversion. It was first published using the title “Hymn for Christmas Day.” “Hark The Herald Angels Sing” highlights the virgin birth, the coming of the Christ to all nations and because of Christ’s humanity, there is a “second birth.”  The “second birth” or “new birth” is essential to Wesleyan theology.

Mary was the first “swaddler.” She was forced to give birth in destitution, by imperial decree. God became poor! Mary responds to the injustice of her situation with creativity, compassion and courage. She “swaddles” the baby Jesus. She makes a crib for Him from a feeding trough, and she welcomes the shepherds.

As 2020 draws to an end, the world is looking for a better day. We all need to become “swaddlers.”  “Swaddlers” lead others to mangers. “Swaddlers” work to make life in mangers more just in anticipation of the day when all people on earth, “with angelic host proclaim, Christ is born in Bethlehem!”  (Luke 2:1-20)

Prayer: Lord, may we hear the Christmas message and become like Mary and become “Swaddlers.” May we recognize that God came in the form of a baby to save the world! Amen.

Luke 2:12 – “Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”

By the Rev. Tommy Herndon
Image: Adobe iStock