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“But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” Galatians 4:4-5

Research from Gallup last year (Dec., 2019) revealed that although 93% of Americans celebrate Christmas, only 35% of those do so in a “strongly religious” way.^*  But without the Reason for the season, Christmas is just a decorated tree, gifts, and some time off from work. Despite all the carols and twinkly lights, without belief in Jesus, the day is meaningless.

On that first Christmas, the world had not heard from God in about 400 years. People were doing their own thing, and probably just a small percentage of dedicated Jews were clinging to the promises of the prophets for a Messiah.

But Christmas.

The silence was broken as two heavenly birth announcements were made, one to Zacharias (regarding his son, John the Baptist) and the other to Mary, a young teenager yet to be married. In fact, as the Bible’s New Testament opens, it initiates the fulfillment of 456 Messianic prophecies of Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection. (Let that fact sink in for a minute. If someone told you a thing would happen to you tomorrow, and it happened, you’d think, “Huh, that person got lucky.” But if that same someone told you 50 things that would happen—and they did—you’d be hard-pressed not to believe the source was sound. But what if that person told you 100 different things that would happen—and they did? What about 200? 300? 456? Who would doubt the veracity of that source? OK, I digress.)

Into that dark world over 2000 years ago burst the Light of the world. He came to be the final sacrificial Lamb—the One who would pay the final price of sin, removing the separation between men and God. He came to save us, justify us—by faith—so we can have peace with God (Romans 5:1). If we believe.

Today, the world is dark. (I can’t say it’s “darker than ever” with perfect certainty, but I can declare that it’s the darkest of my lifetime.) There is tangible fear, divisiveness, unholy self-gratification, and rampant foolishness.

But Christmas.

We don’t have to wait for a heavenly announcement or a burst of light in the dark sky. It has come—He has come. Jesus. Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). The greatest Gift has been delivered. If you haven’t already received this amazing, eternity-changing free gift of saving grace, won’t you make 2020 the year?

“Lord, Christmas has been watered down and secularized, losing it’s meaning. I pray that the Scriptural songs of the season and my words (and actions) reflect the Son and turn others to You.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Ministry

* https://news.gallup.com/poll/272378/americans-celebrating-secular-christmas.aspx