The context announcement and birth of the LORD Jesus Christ

Jesus was born at the time of national census, when everyone was expected to return to their hometowns to register. Therefore, Joseph and Mary returned to Bethlehem. It was necessary that the LORD Jesus Christ be born in Bethlehem as a fulfilment of the scripture proclaimed by the prophet Micah 5:2. God directed the Emperors heart to issue the decree to have a national census (Proverbs 21:1). However, while in Bethlehem Joseph and Mary could not find any accommodation, hence Mary placed Jesus Christ in a manger, the birth of Jesus in the manger was to attest to His humility.

We can draw lessons from the reaction to Jesus's birth by the Shepherds, the wise men and indeed King Herod. When the angel told the Shepherds about the birth of Christ, they were amazed and wanted to see the Messiah, whereas the wise men from the East came to worship Him (Matthew 2:10-11). However, when King Herod heard this he was disturbed and gave an order to kill all babes aged 2 years and below.