The birth of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christmas season, celebrated by billions around the world. While we often focus on the nativity scene, there are powerful lessons hidden in the lesser-discussed details of His birth story.
By turning our attention to the experiences of Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, we can discover profound teachings that apply to our lives today. These “forgotten” lessons of Jesus’ birth offer guidance on faith, obedience, humility, and trust in God’s plan.
1. Mary’s Faith
Photo by Phil Hearing on UnsplashMary’s role in the birth of Jesus is significant, but the depth of her faith is one of the forgotten lessons of Jesus’ birth. When the angel Gabriel visited her, she was a young, unmarried woman in a conservative society.
She was told she would conceive a child by the Holy Spirit—a message that could have been met with confusion and doubt. Yet, Mary responded with unwavering faith.
Her words, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38), show her submission to God’s will, despite the uncertainties. Mary teaches us that faith isn’t just about belief; it’s about being willing to submit to God’s plan when we don’t fully understand it.
This lesson reminds us that God’s timing and methods may not align with our expectations, but trusting Him can lead to miraculous outcomes.
2. Joseph’s Courage
Photo by Ayrus Hill on UnsplashJoseph’s story is often overshadowed by others in the nativity, but his role was vital in protecting and providing for Mary and Jesus. When Joseph discovered Mary’s pregnancy, he could have reacted harshly, as was culturally expected.
Instead, Joseph was “a just man” (Matthew 1:19) and chose to quietly divorce Mary, avoiding public shame. However, an angel appeared to him, telling him to take Mary as his wife and raise the child.
Joseph’s immediate obedience shows trust in God’s will, even when it was difficult or confusing. He embraced the responsibility of raising the Son of God without hesitation, offering a profound example of righteousness and selflessness.
Joseph teaches us that trust in God may require actions that defy societal expectations.
3. The Shepherds’ Joy
Photo by Jaka Škrlep on UnsplashAnother of the forgotten lessons of Jesus’ birth comes from the shepherds. While Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem for the census, the shepherds were nearby, watching their flocks. An angel appeared, announcing the birth of the Savior.
The angel’s message made it clear: Jesus’ birth was for ordinary people like the shepherds, not just the rich and powerful. The shepherds exemplify humility and joy in their response to the angel’s message.
They didn’t hesitate to visit the newborn King. “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass” (Luke 2:15), they said, and they quickly went to find Jesus.
Upon seeing Him, they shared the joyous news with others. From the shepherds, we learn that Christ came for everyone—regardless of social status—and that when we encounter the Savior, we are called to share His love.
Their eagerness to spread the news reminds us that the true spirit of Christmas is sharing the good news of Jesus with others.
4. The Wise Men’s Seeking
Photo by Rod Long on UnsplashThe wise men, or Magi, are another vital part of the nativity story. These men, who traveled from the East, followed a star that led them to the newborn King. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, symbolizing Jesus’ divine kingship, high priesthood, and sacrificial death.
The wise men’s journey teaches us important lessons. First, they exemplify the importance of seeking the Savior. Their long journey, guided by the star, shows that following Christ requires intentional effort and dedication. Their search was driven by a deep desire to honor Jesus’ birth.
Their gifts also serve as a model for how we should approach Christ—with reverence and worship. The wise men didn’t come empty-handed; they brought their finest gifts. This reminds us that when we come to Christ, we should offer our best—our love, devotion, and willingness to serve.
The wise men’s obedience to divine guidance, returning home by another route to avoid King Herod, reflects the importance of following God’s direction. From the wise men, we learn to seek Jesus diligently, honor Him with our best efforts, and follow divine guidance in our lives.
Lessons for Us Today
Photo by Aaron Burden on UnsplashWhen we reflect on the stories of Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and the wise men, we see a fuller picture of Jesus’ birth. Each figure teaches us valuable lessons that help us reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
From Mary’s faith and submission to God’s plan, to Joseph’s trust and righteousness, the shepherds’ humility and joy, and the wise men’s devotion and worship, the birth of Jesus was a transformative event that calls us to live more Christlike lives.
As we celebrate the holiday season, let us remember these forgotten lessons of Jesus’ birth. Let their examples guide us in our own lives as we seek to follow the Savior, trust in God’s plan, humbly serve others, and worship Christ with all our hearts.
Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.
