A Gift From The Father

Who is this child whose birth we celebrate at Christmas? Let’s reflect on the events surrounding Jesus' birth. It’s not just a lovely story; it reveals the earthly manifestation of heaven's ultimate plan –the salvation of the world through God’s gift of his son Jesus.

When the angel appeared to Mary, Jesus' mother, for the first time (Luke 1:28-35), he revealed the child's name, nature, and mission. This promised child would undoubtedly be one-of-a-kind. When Mary was looking at her baby at birth, she may have been remembering the conversation she had with the angel a few months before. Jesus was not an ordinary child, and neither were the events surrounding his birth.

Jesus was God’s gift not just to the nation of Israel but to the world in its entirety. His sole mission was already known; he was coming as a Saviour – to all who would accept his finished work on the cross. Jesus is still saving people today just as did in the days of old. He was coming as Messiah, the promised deliverer of all who will believe, both in Israel, and wherever we live. We don't need to walk in dread because he was coming as Lord, and still remains the one who has dominion and influence over all.

As the world prepares for the festivities, may our focus move from simply commemorating Jesus' birth to embracing him for who he is: Savior, Messiah, and Lord. Love has always fueled God's desires for the world. He gives because he loves, and his ultimate desire in sending Jesus to the world that he created is to offer salvation and restore you and me to a state of fellowship, oneness, power, and authority in Christ.

Heavenly Father, I am thankful for Jesus' birth and what it means to us as we celebrate Christmas. Allow this truth to reawaken my desire to love him more and to walk in complete submission and obedience to him. Amen

Throughout the Day Who is Jesus to you? If you are still undecided, why not take a leap of faith and accept this wonderful gift from God? Allow Jesus to be your Saviour, Messiah, and Lord over your life.