Definition: And all they that heard [them] laid [them] up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 1:66. It's a really powerful and significant passage that speaks about the birth of Jesus. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a moment when people were filled with awe and wonder at the arrival of Jesus, but also with a sense of disbelief and confusion. It shows them that they thought about him in a really profound way – almost like he was an unusual or miraculous child. Let's unpack it: “And all they that heard [them] laid them up in their hearts…” This means people who had heard about Jesus, perhaps through prophecies, stories, or even just whispers, started to think about him deeply. They weren’t just passively hearing about him; they were actively considering him as something special and extraordinary. “…saying, What manner of child shall this be!” This is a question – an intense questioning! They were imagining him in ways that seemed impossible or unusual. He was being seen as different from everyone else, perhaps with magical powers or qualities they couldn't quite understand. “And the hand of the Lord was with him.” This is the most important part. It means God actively intervened and guided events to ensure Jesus’ birth went perfectly. The "hand of the Lord" isn't just a physical touch; it symbolizes divine guidance, protection, and favor. What does this tell us about Jesus? It suggests that Jesus wasn’t just any baby – he was uniquely special, divinely appointed, and incredibly significant. He was seen as a powerful and miraculous figure who would change everything. It points to the idea that God's plan is often surprising and beautiful, even when things seem chaotic or uncertain. In essence, this verse captures the profound impact of witnessing the birth of Jesus – it’s a moment where people were captivated by his destiny. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in more detail? Provide some context about why this story is important in religious tradition?