Christmas HopeSample

THE REAL CHRISTMAS

Christmas is one of the best times of the year but, sadly, the reality of it often sinks away as we become distracted by the urgency of planning gatherings and holidays, and navigating traffic. Even running through the usual nativity plays can make the Christmas story seem more like a familiar fable filled with warm fuzzies, than an actual event in history. 

Luke 2:11 is such a great verse to reflect on at Christmas time. It’s loaded with information about the baby who arrives in the nativity scene we know so well. Firstly, it shows us that Jesus was born on a day in history. This is not a made-up tale. Jesus arrived on a day that was planned out by God at a specific time in history, two thousand years ago. Adding to this reality, Jesus was born in the city of David – otherwise known as Bethlehem (Luke 2:4). 

These facts show that Jesus was born at a time in history, in a city, like we live in. He is not a distant figure, but so close to our situation. 

Finally, we are told that Jesus is a Saviour, Christ the Lord. He came to save us from our sins. He is the one promised long ago. He is able to save us from our sins because He is God in the flesh. 

If Christmas has become familiar to you, reflect on Luke 2:11. Feel the reality of Jesus, God in the flesh, coming to a city like ours on a day like today.