The Advent season is here! Churches around the area are getting decorated for Christmas as the followers of Jesus celebrate the first arrival of the long-awaited Messiah. Angels announced his arrival to Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds. God revealed to Anna and Simeon, two devout followers from the temple, that this new child was the one who would bring redemption and salvation to God’s people. It must have been shocking to think that the King who would save the world was only a baby. How much more surprising that it was God’s plan all along. The birth in Bethlehem was the announcement that the King had arrived and would accomplish every purpose God intended for Him.
There are several ‘wonders’ taking place at the birth of Jesus. The angel Gabriel tells Mary that the baby she will carry will be called the Son of the Most High. Gabriel tells Joseph that the baby Mary is carrying will be called Immanuel, which means God is with us. In the announcement to the shepherds, the angels reveal the arrival of Jesus will usher in peace to those with whom God is pleased. This joy and wonder over the birth of Jesus is what we continue to celebrate today during Christmas. The fact that the Son of the Most High came in the flesh to dwell among men and women on earth should fill you with wonder. Knowing that the Father sent Jesus in the flesh because He was pleased to do it for His people should fill you with joy.
It would be easy to get sidetracked by all the glitter in our modern Christmas celebrations. But all that does is distract us from the true meaning of Christmas. Instead of being sidetracked, make the story of the birth of Jesus the center of your celebration. God sent His Son into the world so that the world, through Him, might be saved. This might seem unlikely when you look at the baby in the manger, but when you know Him as the King of kings, you can’t help but celebrate. God had a purpose for sending Jesus, and that purpose will be fulfilled. It is the best reason to celebrate!
~ Pastor Mike
