KEY SCRIPTURE Various RELEVANCE This time of the year we celebrate our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Christmas is a busy time, which can draw our minds away from focussing on the real reason for the season—the birth of the accurately prophesied Saviour; the lamb who takes away the sins of the world. (John 1:29) In 2 Corinthians 9:15, the Apostle Paul said, Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. Unspeakable means inconceivable, indescribable, unutterable, and I think each description is applicable, as we do not understand the full measure of the wonder that is beyond description, until we get saved. What astonishment we experience when Christ dwells within. What praises easily fly from our heart and lips as we contemplate and take hold of that blessed grace offered by our merciful God. These scriptures remind us of the marvel of Jesus Christ, and the preciousness of the gift of salvation.
Zechariah 9:9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. Zechariah's prophesy (nearly 500 years BC) highlights the greatness of the salvation gift and the humble manner in which the King of Kings would arrive in Jerusalem, showing us the inner working of His heart. (When Christ eventually came He said, Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:29) The prophesy also says that those who seek the Saviour should rejoice greatly and shout praises and thanksgiving at His arrival in their lives. Praise and rejoicing flows because we've encountered that Saviour and the inworking of the Holy Spirit.
Isaiah 7:14 (Around 750 years BC) Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel (Meaning God with us). Isaiah prophesied of Mary's conception by the Holy Spirit, which was the sign that God is coming to be with us in human form. Because of that, He understands all we go through.
John 3:16 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. The writer, John the disciple, walked with Jesus and witnessed His power, glory, and humility. Clearly the fulfilment of those prophesies, revealing the extent of God's love for us—just to save us and give us everlasting life.
In the Bible, there are many more prophecies of Jesus, the one to whom we owe our lives. Every prophecy of His birth and life came to pass. Not one was wrong, late or inaccurate. This shows that God is in control in every era including this one. Our Saviour lives, and because of Him salvation is offered to all humanity. Those who choose to accept it live awesomely changed lives through the quickening of the Holy Spirit. Praise God for His birth. PRAYER Dear Lord, thank you for the birth of your only begotten Son, to whom we owe everything.
Photo by Pete Pedroza