For to us, a child is born, to us, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
Many parts of the United States will be under a weather advisory this Christmas. Because several flights have been canceled by airline companies due to the weather, many families will not be able to have Christmas together. Whereas this unfortunate turn of events will anger and disappoint numerous individuals, it will not and cannot undermine the message of hope, victory, love, and salvation of Christmas.
During Christmas, we celebrate the love of our creator who sent His only Begotten Son for our redemption and to assure our salvation. The good news of Christmas is that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Christmas assures us that God will never forsake us nor reject us. Therefore, we should have hope for a better future no matter how devastating the past and present may be.
When Jesus was born in that manger in Bethlehem Satan was defeated and humanity was given victory over demonic forces. Jesus’ birth gave us victory over sin and death. Therefore, we wait with eager anticipation when we will be ushered into the presence of God on the day of our physical death.
At Christmas we sing joy to the world, the Lord has come. Let earth receive her king. This song reflects the words of Isaiah who prophesied, “For to us, a child is born, to us, a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
It may be difficult for those who are mourning the loss of a loved one, battling a major illness, or facing financial hardships or divorce to contemplate the good news of Christmas. But just as Jesus was born at a time when the Jewish people were hopeless and helpless because they were living under the tyrannical rule of Herod and were subjugated to Roman oppression, we should look at Christmas with the hope that God can intervene in our situation at any time. We should never lose our faith in the Almighty no matter how difficult our circumstances may become.
The good news about Christmas is that the gift of salvation is offered to everyone. The baby in the manger is the Everlasting Father, and Savior of the world. Those who believe in Him will not perish but have everlasting life. So, even if we experience sorrow during this Christmas season, we should be mindful of the good news about the Savior who came to redeem humanity from eternal damnation.
God so loved the world that He did not send an angel or a prophet to proclaim His salvation and demonstrate His love for humanity. The Lord came in person so we would not doubt His unfailing love for us. That is good news indeed—one that is worthy of celebration.
More importantly, the good news of Christmas is that Jesus Christ will return to rapture in His Church. The first time Jesus came in that manger in Bethlehem as a baby. But the second time, He will come back as the King of kings and Lord of lords. All knees will bow before Him and He will fulfill His promise to His Church and usher in a new era of divine dominion and power. That is good news, indeed!
Questions for Personal Reflection
What does Christmas represent to you?
What is the theological message we can draw from Christmas?
Prayer- Blessed Lord, thank you for sending Jesus to come on earth to offer me the gift of salvation. Please help me to appreciate the sacrifice you made through Christ Jesus and live a life that honors you in every way.