For Unto You is Born this Day...

“We should live our lives as though Christ was coming this afternoon.”   - Jimmy Carter

Over 2000 years ago, the birth of a very unique baby took place. Yes, babies are born every day, but, this was no ordinary childbirth. It was so special that it necessitated the announcement of it by an angel of the Lord! And from that day forward nothing on earth would ever be the same (Luke 2:8-11).

Although this news may have been surprising to the humble shepherds who received it, the coming of Jesus Christ was not an obscure secret. It had been foretold in many Old Testament prophecies. In fact, the promise of a Messiah is prominently featured throughout the Hebrew Scriptures.

What makes this all so incredible is that these messianic prophecies were told hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of years before they transpired. Additionally, Jesus Christ is the only person ever born to have fulfilled them!

I'd like to briefly review a few of the most obvious and important prophecies of Christ's coming with you. Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6; Micah 5:2 are scripture that refer to the birth of Jesus. Zechariah 9:9; Psalm 22:16-18; are noteworthy because they concern the ministry and death of Christ.

The 53rd chapter of Isaiah is probably the most distinguishable prophecy about Jesus. Furthermore, most notable is Isaiah 53:3-7. Even the end of his life was foreseen. Daniel 9 predicts the date of his death, Isaiah 50:6 details the brutal beating endured by Christ. And the piercing of the Messiah after his death is presaged in Zechariah 12:10.

Imagine the confusion, amazement, and fear that overwhelmed the poor shepherds on that dark, starry night so long ago. The night probably began as just another long, chilly night of watching over their flock. The low, soft bleating of the sheep echoing among them. Little did they know that they had been chosen as recipients of the greatest news known to man.

The the birth of Jesus Christ certainly was good news in and of itself. For within it was embodied incathe great prophecy from the beginning of the world, and the hope of the Church for all time. The gracious design of His manifestation heralded good news to a guilty and depleted world.

On the day of His birth, Christmas Day, let us celebrate the way of salvation which was brought about by this most holy event and join in the heavenly chorus, saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2: 14)

Scripture: Luke 2:15; Ephesians 1:9; Acts 10:36; Luke 19:38; Luke 19:38

Prayer; Holy Father, help us to be the faithful, gracious, loving, giving and forgiving people you would have us be. Amen

Wishing all of you happy and safe holiday blessings,

Kristina