WHY CHRISTMAS
In the seventh chapter of Isaiah, specifically verse 14, it is stated, “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign.” This proclamation emphasizes the significance of the sign, which is further elaborated by the announcement that a virgin will conceive and bear a son, who will be named Emmanuel. It is essential to note that the name Emmanuel translates to “God with us,” underscoring the profound nature of this prophecy. The repetition of this verse serves to reinforce its importance, highlighting the miraculous nature of the virgin birth and the divine presence that it signifies.
Furthermore, in Isaiah chapter 9, we encounter another significant prophecy, particularly in verses 6 and 7. This passage invites collective engagement, as it proclaims, “For unto us a Child is born, and unto us a Son is given.” The text elaborates on the attributes of this child, stating that the government will rest upon His shoulders, and He will be known by several exalted titles, including Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The passage concludes with the assurance that the expansion of His governance and peace will be limitless. It is noteworthy that Isaiah’s prophecies regarding the Messiah were articulated over 700 years prior to Christ’s birth, reflecting the meticulous preservation of these sacred texts by Israel, which chronicled the prophetic insights concerning the anticipated arrival of the Messiah.
Isaiah’s contributions to biblical prophecy are remarkable, particularly in what is often regarded as one of the most Messianic chapters, Isaiah 53. This chapter, along with the entirety of the book of Isaiah, was composed during a period spanning from approximately 701 BC to 648 BC. The depth of God’s commitment to reaching humanity is profoundly evident in these texts, as they foreshadow the coming of the Messiah. The anticipation of this pivotal moment in history underscores a divine focus on human sin and the need for redemption. The heavens, in their readiness to intervene, prepared to send forth the first begotten of the Father, who identified Himself as the light of the world. This act of divine intervention was not merely a historical event but a profound statement of hope, as it signified that humanity would not remain in a state of despair indefinitely.
The prophetic words of Isaiah, particularly in Isaiah 7:14, where it is foretold that a virgin will conceive, were fulfilled precisely as predicted, marking a significant moment in the narrative of salvation. However, a notable challenge faced by contemporary believers is the lack of capacity to internalize and cherish the word of the Lord. Unlike the Israelites, who diligently passed down the promise of the Messiah over seven centuries, many today take their faith for granted, often viewing it as a mere tradition rather than a profound truth. This generational transmission of hope and expectation served to remind the faithful that sin would not dominate humanity forever, and that the promise of redemption was a reality to be awaited with eager anticipation. In contrast, those born into Christian households may find it all too easy to dismiss these truths, failing to recognize the weight of the promises that have been entrusted to them.
Throughout history, individuals have interpreted the significance of Christ and His arrival in a multitude of ways, leading to a diverse understanding of the Messiah’s purpose and meaning for both ourselves and others.
This multitude of interpretations has contributed to a contemporary environment where the true essence of the celebration is often overshadowed. Many perceive Christmas merely as a festive occasion characterized by shopping and elaborate decorations. For instance, in cities like Las Vegas, the prevalence of lights during the holiday season serves as a stark reminder of the biblical reference to Christ as the “light of the world.” However, it is crucial to reflect on why the illumination associated with Christmas becomes so extravagant and sought after, as it often distracts from the deeper significance of the light itself, which is meant to symbolize the presence of Christ.
The anticipation surrounding the coming of Christ is deeply rooted in prophetic declarations from figures such as Zechariah, Isaiah, and Micah, which highlight the profound intention behind His arrival. These prophecies, many of which have been remarkably fulfilled, underscore the notion that God had both you and me in mind when He sent His Son into the world. This narrative unfolds through various eras, from the participatory period where individuals interacted with Christ directly, to the post-Ascension era characterized by the teachings of Paul and other apostles. In this ongoing era, the Apostle John encapsulates the essence of this journey in his writings, particularly in 1 John 1:1-4, where he merges the past and present, offering guidance that remains relevant today. This instruction serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of Christ’s light in our lives, urging us to look beyond the superficial aspects of the holiday season.
In the opening chapter of the Gospel of John, specifically from verse 1, the text emphasizes the profound experiences of the apostles, stating, “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled concerning the word of life.” John articulates a significant distinction between the anticipatory period of faith and the participatory era in which he and his contemporaries lived. This epistle, written after the Ascension of Christ, merges the past experiences of the apostles with the present reality of their faith, asserting that the essence of the believer’s experience should reflect this continuity. John underscores the tangible nature of their encounters with Christ, highlighting that they not only heard and saw Him but also physically engaged with Him, thereby establishing a foundation for the fellowship that believers are invited to share.
Furthermore, John elaborates on the manifestation of eternal life, which was with the Father and revealed to them. He expresses a desire for others to partake in this fellowship, stating that their communion is not only with one another but also with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. The concluding verse encapsulates the purpose of his writing: “These things we write to you that your joy may be full.” This statement serves as a summary of John’s message, reflecting on their firsthand experiences with Jesus—His birth, life, death, and resurrection—and the joy that arises from this relationship. As we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, it is a reminder that any challenges to our joy will be met by divine intervention, affirming the belief that true joy is rooted in the reality of Christ’s presence and the fellowship it fosters among believers.
It is essential to concentrate on the true significance of Christmas, recognizing that the arrival of Christ was not merely a predetermined event leading to His death. Rather, it was part of a divine plan that was established before the creation of the world. This plan was not a spontaneous decision but was revealed progressively over time, indicating that a transformative event was destined to occur for humanity. This transformation would fundamentally alter the way we live. I encourage everyone to understand that the core purpose of Christ’s coming is centered on redemption and reconciliation. Anything that falls short of these principles should not be accepted in our lives, as they embody the very essence of His mission.
The celebration of Christmas is a reminder of the redemption we have received from our sins, signifying that sin no longer holds dominion over us. We are not only redeemed but also reconciled with God, which is a profound aspect of our faith. It is important to recognize that forgiveness can sometimes come with reservations, as illustrated by the dynamics that can occur within families during gatherings. For instance, one might forgive a relative for past grievances yet still feel the need to maintain distance. However, the redemption offered through Christ transcends mere forgiveness; it restores our relationship with God, allowing us to embrace a new identity as transformed beings. In this light, we celebrate the profound impact of His coming, which brings both liberation from sin and a renewed connection with the divine.
God did not instruct us to merely maintain our distance; rather, He invited us to embrace His space, proclaiming that there is ample room for all of us to coexist.
He beckons us to come forth and reconcile with Him, assuring us that we are not outsiders in His presence or in His home. This is precisely why I celebrate Christmas with such fervor. My journey to faith is unique; I was once a young boy raised in Islam, devoid of the knowledge of Christ. While some may have been nurtured in the faith from birth, my path was different. I vividly recall the transformative moment when I chose to dedicate my life to Jesus. The overwhelming joy that flooded my soul was profound, as I realized I was liberated from the fear of divine wrath or any other formidable power. The sensation of being discharged and acquitted from guilt was exhilarating.
The scripture in Romans 8:1 resonates deeply with this experience, stating that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, provided they walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. The term “condemnation” carries a legal connotation; it signifies a state of being judged and awaiting sentencing. Many individuals today live under the weight of such condemnation, feeling as though they are perpetually on the brink of judgment. This mindset can lead to tragic outcomes, such as a person experiencing a car accident and interpreting it as a form of divine retribution. In our society, we often hear phrases like “God caught him,” reflecting the belief that those who are condemned will inevitably face consequences. Similarly, when a woman expresses dissatisfaction with her husband’s behavior, she may secretly hope for a form of divine justice when he encounters misfortune, such as losing his job.
It may seem amusing, yet it is crucial to grasp the essence of what I am conveying. Often, the condemnation we experience does not stem from others or even from God; rather, it frequently originates from within ourselves. Many individuals carry the belief that they deserve misfortune due to their perceived shortcomings, leading them to dwell on past mistakes and anticipate negative outcomes as a form of self-punishment. This internal dialogue can be so pervasive that it influences our interactions with others, as some may expect us to share tales of despair, anticipating our acknowledgment of their judgments. For instance, consider the scenario of having a difficult supervisor; it is not uncommon for individuals to harbor resentment and, in their hearts, to have already condemned that person. Consequently, upon hearing of their misfortune, one might feel indifferent, having emotionally distanced themselves long before.
However, it is essential to recognize that the mercy of God transcends our human tendencies toward judgment and condemnation. The scriptures remind us that God’s mercy is everlasting, and through Christ, we are liberated from the chains of legalistic condemnation. Unlike humans, who may judge and condemn, God stands as the protector of the vulnerable, possessing the authority over life and death, offering redemption and restoration. As we reflect on the significance of Christmas, it serves as a poignant reminder of the reconciliation of our lives with God. This reconciliation and redemption bring forth blessings that surpass material wealth, as articulated in Romans 14:17, which emphasizes that the kingdom of God is characterized not by earthly possessions but by righteousness, peace, and joy. These gifts are invaluable and cannot be purchased, highlighting the profound nature of our relationship with the divine.
The essence of the Kingdom of God is encapsulated in the joy found in the Holy Spirit, which is a central theme we should embrace during the Christmas season. This time of year serves as a reminder that we have triumphed over condemnation and the disapproval of others, as well as the penalties that we rightfully deserve. Our rejoicing stems from the profound truth that Christ came to offer us redemption and reconciliation. It is crucial for each of us to recognize that when God views us within His Kingdom, He sees us as righteous, having been made right with Him. According to Isaiah 53, the burden of our peace was placed upon Christ, and through Him, we have access to His joy.
As we navigate this season, it is important to acknowledge that some may be facing significant challenges, such as job loss or financial difficulties, which can overshadow the joy that Christmas is meant to bring. For those who feel burdened, it is essential to remember that the core of Christ’s mission was to bring us joy, and allowing negativity to diminish that joy can lead to a loss of other blessings in our lives. Christmas should be a time filled with immense joy, a period for heartfelt celebration, and an opportunity to experience the abundant grace of God. Embracing this joy is vital, as it not only uplifts our spirits but also aligns us with the true purpose of the season.