Birth

The Christmas story seems so peaceful and silent night-ish. A baby is born and laid in a manger. But this was no ordinary birth and no ordinary baby. The old prophet Simeon noted that this child would cause the rise and fall of many.

They were minding their sheep and minding their business when the angel suddenly appeared. In an instant, the darkness of night turned to brilliant light. The angel, coming from the presence of God, brought with him God’s glory, and the place lit up! There was light in the darkness! No wonder the shepherds were terrified! Let’s read their story.

Lori and I want to wish each of you a Merry Christmas. We pray that you have a great time with family and friends. Most of all, we pray that you experience the hope, peace, joy, and love found only in Jesus.

Nate Saint, who gave his life for Christ as a missionary, said it this way: “If we could only grasp the significance of the Incarnation, the word sacrifice would disappear from our vocabulary.” Jesus is our great hope!

The virgin birth certainly defines history. If Jesus was simply the product of a man and a woman, his life and death were no more significant than yours and mine. We could not even call him a good teacher.

Jesus did not stand idly by until his birth in a Bethlehem stable. He always has been, is today, and always will be at work in the lives of his people.

Have you surrendered to the King?

Indeed, the Virgin Birth defines history.

They knew that this child was destined for a special assignment, “for the Lord’s hand was with him.”