It illustrates the power of faith. That is what many of us celebrate now. We all know, somewhere in our heart of hearts, that we didn't pop into this world randomly. Everything we have learned of our world and the worlds around us teaches us that actions incline toward a purpose and the universe follows simple, elegant and powerful laws. Everything, that is, but human history.
People excel in stupidity and cupidity.
As we mature, our illusions pop like soap bubbles. We see good men suffer, and bad men earn fortune and praise. It is difficult to make sense of the world and tougher yet not to become bitter. It tells us not merely that a mountaintop exists, but that one may find reliable guides to get there. For many, the path to the peak begins in Bethlehem, where beasts of burden yowled as a baby greeted the world.