There were many prophecies foretold about the birth of Jesus. But no one could predict the timing of His birth. No one expected His birth in a humble stable. Kings expected Jesus to be born in a palace. But God heaven and earth chose His Son to be born among the poor and needy. Jesus knew what it would be to grow up in a poor family. His father (Joseph) an ordinary carpenter could afford only two pigeons as a gift to the temple, which in those days is an identity of a poor man. Jesus had a first-hand experience of carrying the family’s burden at a young age as there is no record of Joseph after the age of 12.
Throughout His life, Jesus was respected as Rabbi and preacher. The crowd surrounded Him for healing as there was no hospital in those days. People with leprosy were isolated and condemned from entering the city. The differently-abled have no hope during the times of Jesus. But Jesus reached out to everyone and cared for their need. His ministry was fueled by compassion.
Jesus had the authority to forgive the sins of those who repented from their past and believed in Him. He forgave the thief hanging next to him on the Cross. He forgave the prostitute and the tax collector who looted money. All of them believed and repented. The gates of Heaven were opened for everyone who had a heart. The poor, needy, disabled, and sinners were welcomed to glory.
On His last day on earth, He was captured like a thief in the night, beaten, stripped, and hanged on the cross. Though He had the power to break the chains, Jesus went through it all patiently. People who loved and followed Him run away. Nails pierced through His body. He suffered alone on the cross and died. Through His death, He paid the penalty for our sin and made us right before God. Our punishment fell on Him so that we will be righteous before the eyes of God.
Jesus knew He came to die for the sins of the world. He never came to rule, dominate, and win wars against the kingdoms of the world. His enemy was Satan, who came to steal, destroy, and kill. Jesus wants to give hope to everyone and protect them from evil.
Dear friend, I am not sure in which part of the world you are reading this. Independent of your situation, I could assure you God loves you. He loved you so much than His own son, God placed His Son as a sacrifice to save from the consequence of Sin.
Christmas truly is a day to remember and celebrate the Hope we have received through Jesus Christ. It is a day to celebrate the life of Jesus and what He has done for every one of us. Shall we humble our hearts to thank Jesus for what He has done in our life?