The story of Christmas is a remarkable journey from the
foreshadowing of God's promises in the Old Testament to their fulfillment in
the New Testament, particularly in the gospel of Luke. I want to reflect on
this deep story, which reminds us that God's timing and methods often differ
from our expectations yet are always perfect.
We begin by acknowledging God as the Creator of this world
and the Designer of humanity, made in His own image. Genesis 1:27 tells us,
"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created
them; male and female he created them." This profound truth sets the stage
for understanding the depth of God's love and His intricate plans for our
redemption.
For centuries, the Jewish people eagerly anticipated the
coming of the Messiah, a savior who would deliver them from their suffering and
oppression. Isaiah 9:6 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."
Yet, God's plan to send His Son into the world was far beyond their
expectations.
In the gospel of Luke, we see the unfolding of God's perfect
plan. Luke 2:10-11 records the angel's proclamation to the shepherds: "Do
not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the
people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the
Messiah, the Lord." This announcement, made to humble shepherds in a lowly
manger, reveals God's divine timing and method, far removed from human
expectations of grandeur.
Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, "For my thoughts are not your
thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the
heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my
thoughts than your thoughts." We often expect God to resolve our problems
on our terms and within our timeline, much like the Jewish people awaited the
Messiah. However, God operates outside of time, with a greater perspective,
aiming for our growth and deeper relationship with Him.
The Christmas story teaches us the importance of humility
and humbleness. Philippians 2:7-8 speaks of Jesus, who "made himself
nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient
to death— even death on a cross!" Just as Jesus' birth in a stable
symbolizes humility, our journey often requires us to grow and learn in
humility.
This year, after many years of prayers, tears, and awaited
anticipation, I have witnessed the gift of restoration. This restoration did
not come easily or at the time of my choosing. It came through God's wisdom,
after growth and learning. God's timing and methods are always perfect, as we
see in the Christmas story.
As we celebrate the birth of the Christ Child, let us not
lose sight of the true meaning behind this special holiday. Christmas is more
than a season of gifts and festivities; it is the fulfillment of God's promise
of restoration. Let us embrace God's perfect plan, trusting in His timing and
wisdom. May we grow in humility and deepen our relationship with Him, knowing
that His ways are higher than our ways. Merry Christmas and may God's peace and
joy fill your hearts.
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