Though most Nativity scenes revolve around a stable, Jesus was likely born in a cave, or the side grotto of one, where the animals where often kept. During Jesus’ day, a common dwelling place, given the geography in the area, was a cave. So due to the lack of room, Mary and Joseph probably had to settle for making do in the “stable” and with birthing their son amidst creatures great and small. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is built over the cave that is traditionally considered the birthplace of Jesus.

You’ve seen the bumper sticker “My Boss is a Jewish Carpenter.” I’m going to get me one that says: “I Saw The Light When I Met The Christmas Caveman.”