I have often asked myself what was going on in heaven during the specific moment of the birth of Jesus on that chilly night outside Bethlehem.

What was the atmosphere like in heaven as the creator of all creation, the Lord of the universe and the sustainer of life was being born in that tiny manger wrapped in an old piece of cloth, surrounded by only farm animals?

As the heavenly hosts were holding their breath while the greatest mystery of all and the single greatest display of love was taking place here on earth, the coming of the desire of ages went almost unnoticed — with the exception of a few country shepherds and three foreign wise men.

But like the stars in their appointed course, God's purpose will be fulfilled.

"And in the fullness of time, God sent forth his Son to be born of a woman." (Galatians 4:4)

With loving care and diligent planning, God's providence had guided the movement of nations and humanity to receive his Son's coming. With great love and concern, God prepared the world for the coming of its savior.

The little baby born to Mary and Joseph outside Bethlehem arrived in what was truly the "fullness of time." Western civilization was united under the Roman Empire, and one language was recognized as the universal language. Jews from all over the world had come to their homeland to celebrate their annual Passover feast. Everything was in place.

Despite the existing system of Greek philosophy and Roman religion, there was a general quest for religion and spirituality like never before. In the Jewish tradition, hundreds of prophets and holy men had written and preached about the coming messiah. Everything was planned with great care and love.

As I think of this story about that little baby boy born in Bethlehem, I cannot help but marvel at the great details and effort on the part of God to make the coming of his son special for all of us. And at the same time I cannot help but to think about the true meaning of Christmas.

As we enter this holiday season of joy and celebration, let us not forget the deeper meaning of Christmas: "For God so loved the world that He sent forth his only Son." (John 3:16) When God "gave" his son, he emptied heaven of its greatest treasure to give it to us. What a Christmas story!

In the midst of our preparations, celebrations, gatherings, and exchanging of gifts with family and friends, let's take time to meditate in the greatest gift of all, the gift that came wrapped in an old piece of cloth, an old wooden manger for a gift box, and an attached Christmas card that reads: "I did it for love": Jesus.

The Rev. Dr. Roy Gaton, who serves as director of spiritual life and pastoral care at Castle Medical Center, lives with his wife and two children in Kailua. Expressions of Faith is a column that welcomes written works on faith and spirituality. E-mail faith @honoluluadvertiser.com or call 525-8035. Articles submitted to The Advertiser may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms.