What significant difference could one baby make anyway? Like other babies, Christ's birth was no earth-shaking event for the person in the street. Stories remained open. Housewives shopped. Meals were prepared. Men worked their crops. Business as usual. Could anyone be bothered with a baby?
The shepherds could. Out in the open field the angel of God came to them and said, "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:10-11, KJV).
Simeon could. Here was a man who knew the Scriptures. He believed God's promises. When Simeon saw Jesus being presented to God in the Temple, he didn't see an ordinary baby. Taking Jesus up in his arms, Simeon prophesied, "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people" (Luke 2:29-31, KJV).
Anna could. An old woman? What could she know? She knew God. Day and night Anna was in the Temple praying and fasting, and God honored her. Through the power of the Holy Spirit Anna recognized Jesus and went about telling everyone that he was the Messiah.
It's Christmas! Christ is born! Celebrate!
RSS Feed