“For Christ has not entered the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us” – Hebrews 9:24 (NKJV)
God favoured the virgin, Mary and the carpenter, Joseph from Nazareth in the land of Galilee to fulfil His Redemption Plan on earth. The prophecy in Isaiah 7:14 (KJV) was now fulfilled. Mary will be with child and she is to call Him Jesus. – Luke 1:26-38 (KJV). And it came to pass – Luke 2:1-7.
Throughout the account of the birth of Jesus, Joseph and Mary were obedient in doing what God told them to do even when she delivered Jesus in a manger, she didn’t complain but remained humble. He was wrapped in linen swaddling bands/cloth for comfort which also signified he was set aside for sacrifice, similar to what shepherds do upon identifying the lamb as a holy offering.
The shepherds, who were considered outcasts by some leaders due to their vocation, were the first to be given the Good News outside of Mary’s family by no other than an angel. The template was immediately set for future discourse and behaviour of humans. No one is an outcast. The message was, a Saviour, Who is Christ, The Lord, is born – Luke 2:11 (NKJV).
The wise men or astrologers who came from the east brought:
- Gifts of gold – a symbol of Kingship on earth
- Frankincense (an incense) – a symbol of Jesus’ deity or divine nature
- Myrrh – an embalming oil as a symbol of death.
They knelt down and worshipped the King of kings. There was total order in the life of Jesus, from His birth to death, to resurrection. His coming was necessary.
Believers, God will make things happen in your life, the situation never remains the same, it’s a process. During this season and onwards, put Christ in the centre. In doing this, you will be guided correctly – Psalms 71:1 (KJV).
Prayer
Our Lord and gracious Father, we thank You for sending Your Son Jesus. As we celebrate His birth, help us to walk according to Your Word, and keep our hearts pure and undivided. Help us not to be distracted by the evil one but remain focused. Forgive our errors and let us live in the light of Your love, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Read: Luke 24:46; Titus 3:14
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 144:9-15; Revelation 8; Revelation 9:1-12; Ezra 1; Ezra 2:1-67
