First off, I don't want to get into a huge debate on this. I am going on years of study and historical and religious writings. The "manger" as King James english translation calls it was not the same as we are assuming. In actuality the Greek simply means a "stall". However, if you cross reference the greek word in the book of Luke, with the same greek word in the Septuagint (greek old testament), you find that the hebrew word given is Sukkah or Tabernacle. This is a temporary dwelling used during the feast of tabernacles as prescribed by God Himself in Lev 23. The Tradition of this being a barn for animals is incorrect, and I can't find any reference for this in scripture. The only thing about this "manger" where he was laid that implies a feed trough is that he (as a newborn baby) was put in a food basin, which could have even been a kneading trough.
Also, the passage about the magi and thier gifts distincly says that Jesus was a "young child" and that they met him in "the house" (mat 2:11). So Jesus was older by this time and not in the "manger" anymore.
I am not trying to shake anyone's faith, just keep things biblical. If anyone has a problem with the timing of the Messiah's life coordinating with times and seasons preordained by God (Lev 23 again) then think about this. He died on Passover, was buried on Unleavened Bread, Rose on Firstfruits and the Holy Spirit fell on Pentecost. 4 out of 7 biblical festivals fulfiled in the crucifiction story of Messiah. Why would we have a problem with any other part of the Prophecies of his life coordinating with the remaining 3?
I do like the idea of animals in redemption though, been wanting to see these for years.
