Christmas Day is fast approaching! It is the day that we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. With all the gifts, parties, and food, we can get distracted from the true meaning of Christmas. So today I wanted to do something a little different. I want to shine the spotlight on Jesus, the true reason for the season, focusing on three different areas: who, how, and why.
Who?
First of all, what a task! To try to describe Jesus in a concise way when He is literally the “indescribable gift” in 2 Corinthians 9:15! However, I will try my best. Jesus Christ is the son of God, who created the world. Colossians 1:16 says, “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.” Not only did He create the world and everything in it, but He holds it all together. He is the promised Messiah that all the Old Testament Jews looked forward to and we look back at what He did on earth. He is the center of history. Additionally we look forward to when He will return. Jesus paved the way for us to have a relationship with God. He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
How?
In God’s perfect plan, He chose Mary, a young virgin, to be the mother of Jesus fulfilling prophecy. An angel announced God’s plan to Mary saying, “Do not be afraid, Mary. You have found favor with God.” The angel continues to tell her that she will become pregnant and deliver a son named Jesus. She logically asked, “How can this be? I am a virgin.” The answer: “The Holy Spirit will come to you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the holy child developing inside you will be called the Son of God” (Luke 1:30-35). I cannot imagine receiving this news. It is almost impossible to understand! However, Mary recognized that “nothing is impossible for God” (verse 36). And she believed.
Why?
Sin entered the world when Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden. It separates us from God because God is holy and perfect. In fact, “all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Therefore we are all sinners separated from God. He had to punish sin, but He required a perfect sacrifice. One who was sinless and holy. Since all humans are sinful, Jesus left the glories of Heaven to be born a baby in a humble setting. He knew that He would grow up, be tested, and have a ministry of preaching, teaching, and healing. He also knew that He would sacrifice Himself on the cross and take the punishment for sin, even though He was blameless. Jesus knew all of this and still took on human flesh. That is amazing, incredible love!
We are called to put our faith and trust in Jesus. In Him, we have not only forgiveness of sin, but He also clothes us in His righteousness. It is the only way we can be “holy.” Jesus did all of this as a free gift. He offers salvation to anyone who will accept it and follow Him. Jesus Christ is the best gift you can ever receive. He is the true reason for the season.
If you don’t know Him as your Lord and Savior, reach out to me and I can answer your questions. If you already do, then hopefully this short post will point you to Christ today, His Gospel, and lead your heart to worship Him. I stand in awe of His plan, His purpose, and His pleasure in saving His people. Here is to celebrating Christmas for its true reason.