The eighth day of the Armenian Lacrosse and Daily Bible Readings journey brought Coach Johnny Mouradian to Geghard Monastery, one of Armenia’s most revered Christian sites, nestled within the cliffs of the Upper Azat Valley.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Geghard has drawn pilgrims for centuries. Much of the monastery is carved directly into the surrounding rock, a remarkable testament to the faith and craftsmanship of medieval Armenia. Its name, Geghard, meaning “spear,” refers to the Holy Lance that, according to Christian tradition, pierced Christ’s side during the Crucifixion and was later brought to Armenia by the Apostle Thaddeus.
Standing in a place that has inspired worship for generations, Coach Mouradian reflected on the opening verses of Luke 2, the story of Christ’s birth.
“Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, who was betrothed to him and was pregnant.”
Luke continues:
“While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. She gave birth to her firstborn son, wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:4-7)
The birth of Jesus stands in striking contrast to the expectations many had of a king.
The promised Messiah did not enter the world in a palace surrounded by wealth or power. He was born in humble circumstances, laid in a manger because there was no room elsewhere. From the very beginning, Christ’s life revealed that God’s kingdom would be built on humility, obedience, and service rather than earthly status.
That message resonates at Geghard.
Despite its architectural beauty and historical significance, the monastery was not built to glorify those who constructed it. It was built to direct hearts toward God. Its stone chambers, carved into the mountainside with extraordinary care, remind visitors that faith often grows in quiet places through lives marked by devotion rather than recognition.
Armenia’s Christian history reflects that same pattern.
For centuries, monasteries like Geghard served as places of prayer, scholarship, and refuge. Monks copied manuscripts, preserved Scripture, educated future generations, and sustained the nation’s spiritual life through periods of invasion, persecution, and uncertainty. Their work was rarely celebrated in their own time, yet its impact continues to shape Armenia today.
Luke’s account of the Nativity carries that same lesson.
God often accomplishes His greatest work through ordinary people who faithfully answer His call. Joseph and Mary could not have known how profoundly their obedience would change history. They simply trusted God and took the next step before them.
As the Armenian Lacrosse and Daily Bible Readings journey continues, Geghard offers an invitation to rediscover that spirit of humility. Faith is not measured by titles, recognition, or worldly success. It is cultivated through obedience, perseverance, and a willingness to make room for Christ in our lives, just as generations of Armenians have sought to do in places like this.
Coach Mouradian concluded the day’s reflection with the invitation that has become the hallmark of this journey:
“Bring a friend to church. Bring a family member to church this Sunday and every Sunday.”
Tomorrow, the journey returns to Yerevan at the Saint Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, where the next Scripture reading will continue tracing the story of Christ through the heart of Armenia’s Christian heritage.
