I’m a collector; a collector of far too many things actually (but that’s another blog topic…downsizing, simplifying, and uncluttering our lives). Today, let’s talk about one of my oldest collections.
My most prized collection is my creche collection. Oh, how I love finding unique and creative renditions of the Luke 2 Biblical account of the babe in a manger. I love the whimsy, the powerful, and the precious tender portrayal of that event by artisans from around the world. Every imaginable medium has been used to depict the birth of Jesus Christ, bringing our Savior’s story to life and changing the lives of those who believe.
I love to share my nativities with others. During the pandemic, I shared some favorites on my blog throughout December 2020, highlighting one or two nativities each day. That was so well received, I decided to publish an Advent devotional featuring twenty-five of my favorites. It, too, has been very popular. I’m not the only one who finds joy in these symbols often seen at Christmastime.
Today, as I’m packing away my creche collection for the season, I decided to share a few more.
And…yes, I know it’s mid-January! That’s okay. We can celebrate Jesus’ birth every month of the year, right?
I especially love it when artisans give a cultural slant to their creations depicting the Savior’s birth, as seen in this one. Hints of pueblo architecture are prominent in the Southwestern part of fhe United States. That style is mimicked in this ceramic creche.
Old-fashioned pueblos were built of stone and adobe. Rough-hewn wood beams protruded through walls, bearing the weight of the roof. Simple are the lines of this whitewashed ceramic creche – a gift from a friend. A glazed splash of color accents the Holy Family and the hay on which the Babe slept, peacefully.
Such early dwelling places were safe from intruders. Ladders were raised and lowered from windows by inhabitants. Access was limited. Only those who were welcome were received.
What a reminder this creche is of the simple beginnings of Jesus. Born in a stable, and raised in a carpenter shop. He learned in synagogues. Then he spoke to throngs of Jews and Gentiles in his homeland and welcomed followers. Thankfully, our Savior is much more accessible than those who lived in pueblos of old.
Even today, he is waiting to welcome all who will come. We need no ladder. We need only believe Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. With mercy and forgiveness, He will whitewash our souls and build us a mansion in Heaven. Will you trade your pueblo for a mansion?
Pictured next is the tallest Holy Family in my collection – a porcelain pair. A stately duo.
Joseph – staff in hand – stands alongside Mary who holds their young child. This dynamic duo stands proud, holding their infant King. Could they even imagine what was ahead for this babe?
Perhaps this creche depicts the family while in exile. Were they on the go? Egypt welcomed the young family as they escaped, thwarting the evil plans of a jealous and wicked king. Their robes draped and heavy, covered dusty sandals and weary feet. Who knew it would be unsafe to stay in that Bethlehem stable?
God knew. Their quick trip became an extended journey. When would it be safe to return to their homeland? Joseph and Mary didn’t know, but they would keep their son safe until they could go home. No matter what.
Jesus Christ was entrusted to a young carpenter and an even younger maiden; a young couple chosen by God to nurture and raise this Holy Christ Child. What a divine calling.
The next creation?
Nails? Who would have chosen nails to create a creche? How ironic, don’t you think?
The spikes that held Jesus Christ to the cross were massive. These are not.
These tiny square nails are used by ferriers to shoe horses. The small, thin, yet sharp nails are brilliantly shaped into a stable, a manger, and the cast of characters – Joseph, Mary, and Baby Jesus. A star shines overhead, set in place to welcome the visiting shepherds.
Again, simplicity of design is evident yet what a powerful statement it makes! The artist created a worshipful piece of metalwork to commemorate the Christ Child’s birth. This is a treasured gift from a treasured friend’s collection. She was downsizing, and thought of me. I’m blessed to add it to my own collection.
The final nativity I’ll share today is a recent acquisition. I’d say it’s a favorite, but if you know me, every creche is a favorite.
I believe this is pewter as it is much heavier than it looks. An offset arch becomes the framework for this tiny creche. Mary, Joseph, the Babe, and one small sheep find shelter underneath while the star – that wonderful star – shines overhead.
The story of Jesus’ birth is foretold then retold in scripture. Perhaps the most famous retelling is in Luke, chapter 2. When I was a child, our family would read verses 1-24 as part of our yearly Christmas celebration. The same is true for many families throughout America.
Many of us have heard that portion of scripture so many times we can recite it, word for word, decades later. I know I can, though I miss a few words here and there. Memorization is a POWERFUL weapon for Christians.
“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed…” Can you take it from there, my friend?
Or, let’s pick it up at verse 7…”And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.”
No room? How can that be? Our perfect Savior was born on the outskirts of town, in a stable filled with animals. God knew. He knew there would be no room, yet He had the situation under control. This birth in a stable was no surprise to God Almighty.
Sometimes, we think God doesn’t care about our life events. Wrong! He’s got you. He knows. His ways are not our ways and He’s definitely not limited by man’s plans, nor is he affected by Satan’s efforts to ambush.
Remember? He sent angels with a message for the shepherds. Fear NOT. It’s still relevant today.
“Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” The story continues. The story of shepherds, and angels, and the Baby Jesus.
How many of us have played a part in the retelling of this amazing story? Perhaps we’ve watched our children or grandchildren do so. We may not know the scripture, word for word, but we’ve seen it portrayed at Christmas programs. A story from 2,000+ years ago. A story not been lost with time. A story about a baby, born to save the world. He’s still doing so today…one soul at a time.
Why? Because that is God’s plan.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish by have everlasting life,” John 3:16.
Lord Jesus! Your arrival was simple, your message is clear, and your promise, eternal. Thank you for coming to earth to save us. We love you. Today, we give you access to our hearts and minds. Be near us and help us to live as you want us to live on this earth so we can live with you forever in Heaven. Amen.
(c) Elaine McAllister 2025
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