The Birth of Christ is a moment of wonderful fulfilment in the story of the Bible . The birth narratives in Matthew and Luke draw attention to this fact. Many of the key themes of the Old Testament narratives are present in the birth and childhood story of Jesus: messages from angels, opposition from worldly powers (Herod) and God’s providence in worldly events, gentiles coming to Israel for blessing (the Magi ), and God bringing about victory through humility and weakness. In this sense the story of the birth of Christ reflects the story of Israel and Judah in the Old Testament. The parallels are remarkable if you give it some thought and attention. I would encourage you to do this. This Christmas, whenever you see a nativity scene or hear about the nativity story, recognise the greater message of these things. See that Jesus’ birth is the ultimate example of God’s strength in human frailty. See how fierce and irrational the opposition to him is. See how God works to bring his perfect purpose through this opposition. See how Jesus draws people from the ends of the earth to him. See how Jesus unites people of all levels of society in one place of worship (think of the shepherds and the Magi together). But most of all see the God who comes to us; the God who seeks and saves the lost. See in Christ the Son of God who is willing to leave heaven to be born in a stinking barn. That’s how much he loves us, and that is worth celebrating!
Thank God for his gift of Jesus Christ.
Read Matthew 1-2
