Nativity scenes are one of the many symbols instantly associated with the holiday season. The scene recounts the birth of Jesus Christ in a manger in Bethlehem, and Christian churches worldwide feature a representation of this moment during Advent and Christmas. But in 2008, a popular neighborhood nativity near a church in the town square in Criciuma, Brazil, had a last-minute, unexpected addition to their scene.
A homeless German Shepherd puppy who was looking for a warm place to rest for the night happened upon the nativity in the middle of the town. Like many homeless animals around the world, this baby was just looking for somewhere comfortable and safe to try to sleep for a little while.
At the nativity scene, the puppy found the manger with the representation of the baby Jesus inside it. It looked like the perfect place to warm up and get some shut-eye, so the dog hopped into the manger and fell asleep.
The dog was discovered the next morning when some townspeople walked by the nativity scene. He was curled up around the baby Jesus, and word spread quickly of the little Christmas miracle found in the manger. Some people snapped some pictures and posted them online, and the story went viral from there.
Unfortunately, no one has been able to find out what happened to the dog after this moment. We hope that someone loving and kindhearted adopted the dog and that he's spent his last few holiday seasons warm, happy, and loved.
At the very least, the little puppy in the manger is a good reminder heading into the holidays to pay it forward, and focus on the important things in life. And if you can, donate to your local rescue so they can help more dogs, like this little guy, get off the streets and into forever homes. Share this moving story on Facebook with your family and friends.
RESOURCES ALCATEIA AND FABIOSA
