Friday "Light:" The True Glory of Christmas

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"It was great condescension that He who was God should be made in the likeness of flesh; but much greater that He who was holy should be made in the likeness of sinful flesh. "  - Matthew Henry

Through the whole of world history many famous discourses have been recorded. Some of these powerful and inspiring orations have encouraged and comforted countless souls over the centuries.

We can always turn to these in times of trial and insecurity because they speak to us where it matters the most, the heart. Out of all, only a few can be said to generally embrace humanity.

One stands out, in particular. It wasn't a wordy lecture, or a scorching tirade. It was a short announcement that was proclaimed in a simple phrase, yet it was easily the most powerful proclamation ever made to mankind.

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord."  (Luke 2: 11), were the words of an angel, who visited some shepherds that night, on a Judean hillside.

However, not only were those words a declaration of the birth of the promised Messiah, but they were an introduction to the true glory of Christmas. Never had the birth of a child profoundly and immeasurably affected so many.

The main object of this child's birth was not to save the prosperous or the righteous. He came for the sinner (Luke 19:10), and the forsaken (Mark 2: 17). He came not to judge, but to save (John 3: 17).

Jesus provided help to the sinner in three specific areas. These are: acceptance, deliverance, and preservation. First, we are graciously accepted; He made us subjects of his grace (Ephesians 1:6).

Secondly, Jesus delivered (or freed) us from the penalty of sin's power, presence, and penalty by His precious blood (Revelation 1:5; 1 Peter 1:18-19).  No matter the amount of sacrifices or rituals, we were not able to do this ouselves.

Lastly, those whom Jesus saves are saved forever.  No matter our earthly situation, the inheritance is guarded or preserved in heaven for the saved. In simple terms, a spot in heaven is always kept for them (1 Peter 1:4).

Where would we be without Jesus' sacrifice for our sins and His gift of salvation (Romans 5:8-10)? Where would we be without a Mediator for us in heaven (1 Timothy 2:5)? How would we ever be able to appeal to the Father (John 16:23)?

He did so much for us. And in return, He asked only that we love Him and others ((Matthew 22:37–39). Let us celebrate the birth of Jesus not only one day out of the year, but everyday!

"Since all he came to ransom,

  by all be he adored,

the Infant born in Bethlehem,

  the Saviour and the Lord!"

- Philip Schaff: Christ in Song, 1870

Scripture: Isaiah 7:14; Jeremiah 23:5; Micah 5:2; Galatians 4:4; Genesis 3:15

Prayer: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”  - Luke 2:14 (ESV)

Grace and blessings,

Margot