Our Lord was born not only to save us from our sins but also that we “may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). Throughout his ministry, Jesus didn’t distance himself from the social reality of the first-century Jews but cared about their spiritual and physical needs.

A message of solidarity: A Palestinian interpretation of the nativity. Niveen Sarras, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wausau, Wis. She was born and raised in Bethlehem. Living Lutheran, December 25, 2020