Christmas 2023 – Part IV – Jesus

December 20, 2023

This is the fourth post for the four weeks leading up to Christmas. We’re taking a short look at a few of those God chose to be part of Jesus’ birth. Like last week, nothing theologically surprising or deep, just a few insights from God’s Word.

The first week we talked about Zechariah. You can find that post at Christmas 2023 – Part I – Zechariah. Then John, that you can find at Christmas 2023 – Part II – John. Last week, we looked at Mary here Christmas 2023 – Part III – Mary.

This week I want to focus on Jesus.

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This week’s photo is of one of our several manger scenes throughout the house. There’s nothing special about this one other than it is one of my wife’s favorites. The lighting isn’t particularly neat and orderly, but it does the job of illuminating the scene at night when there are no lights in the house other than two Christmas trees, some garland over the door and mantel, and a couple other small Christmas decorations.

One of the things we like about this manger scene is that the baby Jesus is removable. We keep the baby out of the scene until Christmas morning. It gives us the chance to think about the anticipation of that day when God sent His Son to earth in such a humble way.

“She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” (Luke 2:7, NIV)

The anticipation our family senses as we walk by the manger scene and take note that the baby is not there is nothing like the anticipation the world felt as it waited for His birth. Ever since Adam and Eve were deceived by the serpent, the world has awaited a savior to offer redemption for our sins. The descendants of that first couple, of which we all are, have had no choice in whether we need a savior.

Paul tells us in Romans that we all need a savior.

“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23)

So, no surprise that when that small baby cried His first cry, it was a big deal for humanity. That’s why stars led wise men and angels proclaimed the birth to shepherds.

That is also why you and I have great hope. Just as Jesus came to us through a virgin birth, lived a sinless life, died on the cross, rose again the third day, and now resides at the right hand of His Father until it is time for His return—our hope rests in anticipation of His second coming to take us to be with Him forever.

Merry Christmas to everyone and prayers you and your family are able to spend time together this season.