December 22, 2016 (Thursday)
In only a few days we will celebrate the birth of Jesus. A few observations about the birth seem appropriate.
1. The birth of Jesus is a miracle. God became man. He was born into the human family through a virgin birth. It is a double miracle.
2. The birth of Jesus is a fulfillment of prophecy. Many things Jesus did are recorded in the gospels along with the words, “that the Scriptures might be fulfilled.”
3. The birth of Jesus is an announcement of Salvation. The angels declared “good news of great joy which shall be to all people.” The good news is that God has sent us a Savior. His salvation is eternal.
4. The birth of Jesus is a promise of peace. That promise still holds good, awaiting the cooperation of the human family. We can have peace on earth when each of us has peace within, made possible by peace with God, which Jesus has established.
5. The birth of Jesus is proof of God’s love. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
6. The birth of Jesus is an offer of salvation. The gift of God is eternal life, but a gift is just a thought unless it is accepted by the person to whom it is offered.
7. The birth of Jesus is a word from God. Jesus Christ is God’s full and final word. “God has spoken to us by His Son” (Heb 1:2). “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14).>
The true meaning of this wonderful season is that God loves us and sent His Son to save us. Rejoice! Rejoice! His name is Emmanuel (God with us).