【Shoes of the Gospel】Joy to the World? What Is There for the World to Celebrate at Christmas?

Author: Trustworthy Message

It is an excellent time for family dinners at Christmas. We can see Christmas lights everywhere since November. I enjoy walking on the streets with my eyes feasting on the decorations. Festive vibes make Christmas joy.

This holiday season celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ in a manger in the city of Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago, which marked the beginning of a new era in human history. The Old Testament contains over 300 prophecies about Jesus. The prophets had written them hundreds of years before His birth. All these fulfilled prophecies, proving that the birth of the Son of God was not coincidental.

Let’s have a look at eight of these prophecies and their probability of occurrence:

  1. Jesus was born in Bethlehem.
  2. There was a forerunner of Jesus.
  3. Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem.
  4. Jesus was betrayed and pierced in His hands and feet.
  5. Sold Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.
  6. The blood money was thrown into the Temple and used to buy the potter’s field.
  7. Jesus was falsely accused, but He remained silent.
  8. Jesus’ hands and feet were pierced and crucified with robbers next to him.

If eight prophecies fulfilling in the same person, the probability of occurrence is 1 in 10 to the 17th power. How could this be possible if Jesus is not the Son of God? This is why His birth is a time of joy for the whole world.

The beauty of autumn leaves is something not overlooked around Thanksgiving. At Christmas time, we should never ignore Jesus Christ – the reason for the season! I remember asking my students, “Whose birthday does Christmas celebrate?” Over 90% of them answered, “Santa’s.” Who can resist the cheerful Santa who brings Christmas presents? But this is all a legend. Some others answered, “Frosty the Snowman’s.” Well, they must have just built one in front of their houses. At this time, a child raised his little hand and said timidly, “Christmas celebrates the birthday of Jesus.” This brave child knew Christmas was about Jesus.

Everyone loves Christmas presents. More than 2,000 years ago, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, made Himself the most precious gift to humankind. Sad to say, this Christmas present has been overlooked by many.

What do I think about Christmas? First, it is about you and me in the eyes of God. Were it not for our sins, why would Jesus Christ have gone through birth, crucifixion, and resurrection? Second, Jesus is not only a historical figure but also the Son of God, who rose from the dead. This noble son of God came to suffer for the sake of the world, including you and me. “…Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners…” (1 Timothy 1:15).

It could be a pity if you missed out on the autumn leaves. It is an irreparable mistake if you have missed out on the reason for the season. You may say, “I’ll think about this next year.” But tomorrow is unpredictable. Who for sure can see the next Christmas?

Life is full of tribulations. When we are tired and weary, we long for someone to lend us a shoulder. Little do we know Jesus Christ has His arms wide open for anyone willing to believe in Him. There is no need to hide. There is no way to hide. God will seek out His Children.