I was reading about crucifixion today, and thoughts returned to me about the true ignominy of the cross. Crucifixion in the ancient world was not only a punishment of death, but a debasing form of public humiliation - the crucified would hang naked in public squares for all to see. This is how Jesus was put to death.

My mind soon turned back to Christmas and I thought of the manger, the first crib of baby Jesus. It was a feeding trough for animals, probably full of filth and excrement. I imagined the resourceful young Joseph, dumping it out and wiping it down with a cloth, finding the cleanest hay possible. Here, Mary. It's the best I can find.

This is how Jesus was born.

I am amazed.