For to us, a child is born, to us, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)
Oh my gosh! Christmas morning!
Rejoice! Rejoice! Hallelujah! King of kings and Lord of lords. He shall reign forever and ever. Amen.
An indistinct couple from a small town with little money, Mary and Joseph could only find a stable when it came time for Mary to give birth. There was no midwife, doctor, or hospital. The surrounding conditions would be judged unsanitary by modern standards.
Mary gave the world a healthy baby boy with Joseph by her side and supporting her. Believers know the story. The Star of Bethlehem directed the shepherds and the Wise Men who were called to the birthplace.
The young carpenter from a small town who was born of a virgin, is God made flesh, one-third of the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), and destined to be Savior of the world. Wow!
This was more than an ordinary birth. God became flesh through Jesus. He was Emmanuel – God with us. He felt what we feel in joy, sorry, laughter, tears. Victory and loss. He showed us how it was possible to navigate the difficulties of life and sustain a love of God and people irrespective of the personal trials we encounter.
The innocence of the small child in the manger remained in the Son of God, who would be sacrificed on the cross for our sins. We can look at that newborn and see the same light as the shepherds and Wise Men. We can share the hope in that moment of the birth of Christ because we know this is truly the greatest gift of Christmas.
Prayer:
Lord, You came to save us. You gave Your life so we could have a future, redeemed and free from the grip of the evil one and his influence. We see You in Your first moments of life lying in a manger with Your mom and dad near You. You drew people to You even then. And You draw us ever closer when we keep You at the forefront of our lives. We are celebrating today, Jesus, because this day commemorates Your birth – the beginning of Your incredible life. We want to do our best for You. We need You. We love You. Amen.