Celebrate The Birth of Our Lord, Jesus
The Miracle of Christmas: God's Love Made Flesh
As we gather to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the extraordinary moment when heaven touched earth. The birth of Jesus is not just a historical event, but the pivotal point in God's grand plan of redemption for humanity.
Prophecy Fulfilled
The coming of Jesus was no surprise to God. Centuries before that holy night in Bethlehem, prophets foretold His arrival with remarkable precision. Isaiah proclaimed, "Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel"[1]. This prophecy, made over 700 years before Christ's birth, was fulfilled in Mary, a young virgin who conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Moreover, the prophet Micah pinpointed the exact location of the Messiah's birth:
"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times".
These fulfilled prophecies affirm God's faithfulness and His meticulous plan for our salvation.
The Humility of His Birth
Despite His divine nature, Jesus entered our world in the most humble of circumstances. Born in a stable and laid in a manger, the King of Kings arrived not in a palace, but among the animals. This profound humility speaks volumes about God's character and His desire to meet us in our lowliest state.
Heavenly Announcement to Earthly Shepherds
On that holy night, the skies above Bethlehem erupted with celestial joy. Angels appeared to shepherds watching their flocks, proclaiming:
"Don't be afraid! I have good news for you, a message that will fill everyone with joy. Today your Savior, Christ the Lord, was born in David's city".
This divine announcement to simple shepherds underscores God's heart for all people, regardless of their social standing or perceived importance.
Joy and Peace to All
The angelic proclamation was one of "good news of great joy that will be for all the people". This joy is not fleeting happiness, but a deep-seated gladness that comes from knowing that God has not abandoned us. The Prince of Peace had come to reconcile us to the Father and bring true shalom to our troubled hearts.
Light in the Darkness
John's Gospel beautifully captures the significance of Christ's coming:
"In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it".
Jesus came as a beacon of hope in a world shrouded in spiritual darkness. His light continues to shine today, offering guidance, truth, and salvation to all who would receive Him.
Emmanuel: God With Us
Perhaps the most profound truth of Christmas is encapsulated in the name "Emmanuel," which means "God with us." In Jesus, we see God's desire for intimate relationship with His creation. No longer distant or unapproachable, God took on human flesh to dwell among us, to experience our joys and sorrows, and ultimately to die for our sins.
As we celebrate this Christmas, let us marvel at the love that brought Jesus from the glories of heaven to a humble manger in Bethlehem. Let us rejoice that the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. And let us respond to this incomparable gift by opening our hearts to Him, allowing the Christ of Christmas to be born anew in our lives each day.
May the wonder of His birth fill you with joy, peace, and hope this Christmas season and always.
Please come celebrate with us on December 22nd at 10am. Spirit and Truth Church: 320 W Trilby Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80525
