The birth of Jesus, and with him the Gospel, has on one hand a fairly mystical (mythical?) tone to it, as well as a relevant and approachable backdrop, fostering its popularity and endearment by followers of the faith. Where the creation story in Genesis leaves the reader nearly disturbed at how magnificent and rapidly powerful God becomes in a few short verses distant from our history and rationality, the birth of the Messiah is far more humble, progressive, human even. We’re inclined to see ourselves in Joseph and Mary, young lovers forced with a situation neither of them asked for (“You’re pregnant? By… who?”) and trying to figure out how best to make it. Continue reading →