The Miracle: Jesus Chooses to be Born

Every year around this time, I like to take a breather out of the day to sit down and meditate on the real Christmas story; you know, the one found in Luke chapter 2.

The King James Version is the most beautiful. Those 17^th century translators truly understood not only the bible, but the beauty of words and how to blend the two without compromising Scripture.

The reading of Luke reminds us that a very long time ago, the Son of God chose (in obedience) to come to earth as a boy child. We see the love in this almost instantly. But rarely do we reflect on the majesty of His sacrifice and on the astonishing love and bravery He displayed in electing to be born a human.

From the beginning Jesus knew where His choice would take Him.

He knew that the apostles—so close and devoted, His great friends and followers—would all abandon Him at Golgotha (Matthew 26:56). He knew this, and still He came to proclaim the love of God, to seek and to save the lost sheep.

What incredible courage. What amazing love, that you my King should die for me.

As you go about your business, shopping and celebrating, take a moment every now and then this December to reflect on the great devotion Jesus showed in coming here. Imagine what went through His mind as He stood teaching the apostles, knowing that, despite their claims of devotion to Him, they would all betray him in those dark hours.

And still He chose to die for them—and for us.

Think of your closest friend. ('There is a friend who is closer than a brother' Proverbs 18:24). Someone utterly devoted to you, who professes such love that he would rather die than watch you die. Imagine now that you know he will one day turn his back on you. Could you still love him?

Our Savior did. We all turn our backs to Him at some point or another, and yet Jesus continues to offer His hand to us. We need only take it, and He will lift us out of our miseries and forgive us our betrayal.

‘What child is this, who laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping? This, this is Christ the king, whom shepherds guard and angels sing. Good Christians fear, for sinners here the silent Word is pleading. Nails, spears shall pierce Him through, the cross he bore for me, for you.’

Here is a link to a blog with a similar post, only this one is interestingly written from a writer’s perspective. It examines the choice of Jesus and the miracle of this choice.

Remember the Christ-child this season, and the sacrifice of our God. These are good tidings of great joy, and we have much to be grateful for during this wonderful time of year!