There’s something tender about the image of a cradle. Whether it’s the wooden frame that holds a sleeping infant or a parent’s arms wrapped gently around a newborn, a cradle represents both sensitivity and vulnerability. At Christmas, we picture Mary cradling Jesus, the eternal Son of God, resting in her arms. But the cradle of Jesus is more than sentimental; it’s theological. The cradle of Jesus is necessary for the cross of Jesus.
Paul captures that truth in Philippians 2:5–11, a passage often called the “Christ Hymn.” It traces the downward steps of Jesus’ humility and the upward glory of His exaltation. This hymn begins in eternity, descends into the manger, and ends at the throne of heaven.
The Humility of Jesus
Paul urges believers: “You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” The “Christmas spirit” is not about nostalgia or decorations. It’s about imitating Jesus’ humility. Though He was fully God, Jesus did not cling to His divine privileges. He willingly suspended them to step into our humanity.
The miracle of salvation requires the miracle of the incarnation. God had to come in the flesh to save us from our flesh. As Paul says, “He gave up His divine privileges; He took the humble position of a servant and was born as a human being.” This is subtraction by addition. Jesus didn’t lose His divinity; He added humanity. The all-powerful became powerless. The Creator became dependent. The King took the form of a servant. And He did it willingly—for you.
The Exaltation of Jesus
Because Jesus humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross, the Father exalted Him and gave Him “the name above all other names.” Christmas begins the downward descent of Christ, but Easter reveals His upward triumph.
At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. Every tongue will confess that He is Lord. What began with angels singing “Glory to God in the highest” will end with all creation proclaiming, “Jesus Christ is Lord!” The humility of the manger gives way to the majesty of the throne.
The Call to Us
Christmas is not merely a story to admire but a pattern to imitate. Jesus’ mindset was not “How much can I keep?” but “How much can I give?” If the Son of God could stoop to serve, then so can we. True humility is obedience, following God’s will even when it costs us. The cradle leads to the cross, and the cross leads to the crown. Jesus came down to lift you up. And one day, every knee will bow before Him. Let’s begin now with joyful hearts, humble spirits, and reverent praise.