Deepening Faith - Volume 1: Number 3 - Jesus Christ, A Person Unlike Any Other

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was fully God."  - John 1:1 (NET)

Annually, as the current year draws to a close, various periodicals name or list the "Person of the Year," "People of the Year," "Business of the Year," "Movies of the Year," "Performing Artist of the Year," and so on, and so forth,

The usual time will be spent on a multitude of media platforms discussing these lists, critiquing them, dissecting and analyzing them. There will be some familiar names and faces, along with a smattering of new, up-and-coming additions. For the most part, it's all good fun and entertaining.

Having said that, after the camera flashes die down, after the applause fades and the crowds disperse, and after all of the confetti has been swept up, there are some legitimate questions that should be addressed. But more often than not, they are pushed aside until some vague, future date.

"Who is the greatest person of all time?" "Who is the greatest teacher of all time?" "Who is the greatest leader of all time?" "Who lived the only perfect life ever lived?"

I am confident that most would answer "Jesus Christ" to all of the above. Without any question, no one else can compare to him. As a matter of fact, no other religion ever celebrated its originator in such a devoted and affectionate manner.

I challenge anyone to find a more meaningful birth, any time in the history of the world, than that of Jesus Christ. This most amazing event, undoubtedly changed the world in more ways than one. It altered the chronology of history, and brought forth into human existence the greatest one who ever blessed the world with his presence (Matthew 24:35). He is by far the most unique character of all time.

In a world replete with copycats, pretenders, and cheap imitations, it has become increasingly difficult to find someone who truly stands out from the crowd. And even though he lived over 2,000 years ago, the teachings, miracles, parables, precepts, example, life, death, resurrection, and purposes of Jesus all reveal something about his uniqueness; his one-of-a-kindness (Hebrews 13:8).

Indeed we are very blessed that Jesus' story has stood the test of time (Matthew 28:20). The account of his brief, but incredibly influential life is not only his story, but it is ours as well. Because of the love, mercy, and grace of God we were given a reprieve from absolute, spiritual death (John 3:16).

As we joyously celebrate the birth of our Savior, let's not forget his generous sacrifice made on our behalf (Titus 3:5). Jesus did not seek the spotlight, or crave adulation, No, his aspirations were mightier than that. Jesus Christ lived not for himself, but for poor, wretched souls like you and I (Romans 3:23). In the end, he purchased the ultimate gift for us; paid in full with his own blood.

Scripture:; Acts 4:12; Titus 1:2; John 8:24; Romans 8:28; John 3:36

Prayer: Dear God, let my greatest delight be to see You loved and Your praise and glory proclaimed, especially the honor of Your mercy. Let me glorify Your goodness and mercy to the last moment of my life, with every drop of my blood and every beat of my heart. Amen

May you have a blessed weekend,

Constance