The Christmas Story
Well over 2000 years ago, Mary and Joseph, the descendants of King David, set themselves on their way to Bethlehem of Judea for the first census decreed by the Roman Emperor. The trip was exhausting and challenging to say the least as Mary was at the end of her pregnancy.
The months leading up to this trip had been a mixture of surprises, an emotional roller coaster, spiritual amazement, uncertainty and tears of pain because of the gossip of the neighborhood and family members. The quick judging assumptions were condemning…’’What a shame Mary got pregnant before her marriage to Joseph, so sorry that a man who seemed so righteous and fair had failed his and her family.”
Each passing week was a test for Mary's body and soul. Each day that ended Joseph had to deal with the false accusations of something he hadn’t done yet couldn’t really explain.
Joseph had decided not to have any physical relationship with Mary before she gave birth to the child. Mary's womb-her body, was something so untouchable, for in her a child was forming, a baby that would become the Lamb of God who would save people from their sins. The birth of the everlasting King that would forever change humanity. The greatest act of Gods love was “wrapped” inside Mary.
This whole journey was still a mystery. They simply had to trust what God had said and go on. God was doing something so special, so deep and so much greater than their understanding.
With each passing day they knew something very beautiful and powerful was happening but fear and uncertainty was a daily reality while waiting for the divine promise.
What we today celebrate as a beautiful time, for this young couple was the hardest time of their lives. Something so big was about to happen yet something so painful and difficult was taking place in their lives.
The arrival of the Savior couldn’t come fast enough for them. Even so, they relentlessly trusted and believed what God had promised them.
Doing the will of God for them included having to travel a long distance with constant discomfort and uncertainty. Finally they reached Bethlehem. Despite all they had heard from people, they proceeded with one goal; the arrival of the promise of God.
Ultimately, they were divinely rewarded with favor and eventually surrounded with glory.
On the other side of their obedience, came angels, shepherds and wiseman bringing gifts. The entire world has come to celebrate the birth of Christ the Lord!
Today, the number of those who celebrate His birth is countless around the world. Literally millions upon billions celebrate the arrival of Christ and the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.
Having to obey God and stay true to His will in hard circumstances is not for the faint hearted but obedience always pays dividends.
Jesus came to stay! Jesus came to live in our hearts forever! Today, whomsoever will come to Jesus and call on His name will be saved and restored!
The market place in Bethlehem of that night had no room for the King but will you make room for the King in your heart? That will be the very best Christmas gift of all.
Jesus of Nazareth was born to be the redeemer of humanity!
‘’For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.’’
2 Corinthians 5:21
‘’In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.’’
Ephesians 1:7
The story of Christmas is the greatest redemption story ever. It is Gods love given to us as a gift. Christ Jesus is the greatest gift of all!
