The Reason for the Season—Jesus

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given…”
Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV)

Christmas is a wonderful time in the Christian calendar. It’s a joyful celebration of the birth of Jesus, the Son of God and Saviour of the world. The baby Jesus was born in humble circumstances in Bethlehem just over 2000 years ago, and he was laid to sleep in an animal feeding trough. His arrival on this planet was not marked by any great pomp and circumstance, as would have been common for royalty at the time. No, the child Jesus, although born of Royal Blood through his mother Mary, was born to be a Servant King. 

Jesus’ Father was no less than God Himself! His mother, Mary, conceived Jesus while she was still a virgin, as a result of a heavenly miracle. That is why the gospel writers referred to Jesus as the Son of Man and the Son of God. He was indeed God in the flesh, born to shed his life’s blood for the salvation of all mankind. His birth was a Missional act of love on the part the Father, and his death was also an act of love, making possible the forgiveness of the totality of mans’ sin. His death by crucifixion was not a result of cosmic abuse as is sometimes suggested by certain atheists. The righteous and perfect Jesus willingly laid down his life so that you and I can be reconciled to God.

Sadly, modern society views Christmas in terms of Christmas trees, colourful lights, family reunions, partying and buying presents. While some of these things are good and right, they are not, of course, the main reason for Christmas.

First and foremost, Christmas is about Jesus, the Son of God who took on flesh and became one of us. It is about God revealing Himself to us in the Person of His Son. It is about worshipping and praising Him, just as the angels did on the day of his birth so many years ago.

His name is, as the prophet Isaiah wrote, Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). And the good news is, he is coming back to earth, as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Revelation 19:16), to show the world the way to lasting peace and salvation. May God speed that glorious day!

Prayer
Thank you, Jesus, for being willing to become one of us by divesting Yourself of Your great majesty and power. Thank You also for being our Saviour and friend.
Amen 

Study by John Magowan

________________________________________

About the Author:
John Magowan is a member of the Pastoral Council at Grace Community Church, Lisburn, Northern Ireland.

Local Congregation:
Grace Communion Lisburn (www.grace-ni.org)
Ballymacbrennan School Hall
129A Saintfield Road
LISBURN BT27 5PG

Meeting Time:
Sunday 11am

Local Congregational Contact:
lisburngracecom@gmail.com
Phone: 07764336760
Email:  bobbeggs@hotmail.com