We often think of Christmas as being a time filled with joy, fun, decorating, and baking as the sweet aromas begin to fill the house. It’s a season where families come together, creating lasting memories while wrapping gifts and singing carols by the warm glow of the fireplace. The twinkling lights and festive ornaments that we have collected through the years adorn the tree, adding a touch of nostalgia to the atmosphere as loved ones gather to share laughter. The delightful smell of freshly baked cookies and pies fill the air, enticing us to indulge in the seasonal treats that bring us comfort.
We will often go to any lengths to make sure everything is perfect, ensuring that our homes are adorned with every ornament under the sun. We dream of a Christmas that is out of the scene of a Hallmark movie, complete with cozy gatherings around a fire, laughter echoing from every room, and the warmth of loved ones both near and far.
Too many times to count, we run ourselves ragged making sure each present is the perfect gift, carefully selecting and wrapping them with care, and then wondering if the receiver of the gift will even like it or understand the thought behind our choices. The anticipation of their reaction sometimes feels overwhelming. Then there are the extra to-do lists that often bring stress overload, which can feel endless as we juggle everything we have to get done. The Christmas season, meant to be a time of joy, can transform into a whirlwind of obligations, leaving us longing for a moment of peace amidst the chaos.
The peace and joy we are supposed to feel this time of year begins to fade away as we lose focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
Isaiah 9:6-7 says:
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder. And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.”
This verse depicts the very nature of Jesus. He is the Savior of the world, who embodies love, sacrifice, and grace. Let’s look deeper into what this verse truly means. By understanding the essence of His message, we discover the story of redemption and hope which offers comfort and peace to the weary soul and guidance to the one who is lost.
What Does His Birth Promise?
A Child is Born:
Jesus is the promised Messiah spoken about in the Old Testament. His arrival was foretold through various prophecies that describe His divine nature, the redemption He would bring, and the salvation He would offer to humanity. From the early writings of the prophets to the many foreshadowings in the law and the Psalms, the anticipation of a Savior grew among the people of Israel, culminating in the ancient promises through His life, teachings, death, and resurrection, demonstrating His role as the eternal King and Redeemer.
Isaiah 5:14 says: “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” This was written over 700 years before Jesus was born!
Micah 5:2 says: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”
Isaiah 7:14 says: “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”
Jesus left His heavenly home to take on flesh and dwell among us. We no longer have to be slaves to sin, fear, or worry. He came to give us joy and an abundant life. What a powerful display of the love and care the Father has for us. Jesus can relate to us in our weaknesses, our pains, and our fears.
A Son is Given:
A Son is given emphasizes the gift of Jesus to each and every one of us. He doesn’t care what your social status is or what you look like. He came for YOU. He wasn’t just born, but He was given to us as a precious gift from the Father above. God the Father wanted to be reconciled back to us so much that He sacrificed His only son to die in our place. Now that is love. Think about it….Jesus, the Son of God gave up His heavenly home to come to earth and take on flesh for us. He experienced the pain and sorrows we experience in our lives and can relate to everything that happens to us. John 3:16 says:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish buit have eternal life.”
Wonderful Counselor
Jesus is eternally wise and in control. He is ready to lead and guide us today, offering us His profound understanding and strength in every situation we encounter. We can trust Him to listen to our problems and guide us in the right direction, knowing that His ways are better than our ways and HIs compassion for us is limitless. In times of uncertainty and doubt, we can lean on His promises and find peace in the fact that He directs our lives with perfect wisdom and love, ensuring that we are never alone on our journey.
Mighty God
Despite His humble birth in a manger, Jesus is God Almighty. He possesses infinite power and authority over all things, from the vast creation to the intricate details of our daily lives. Nothing is impossible with Him; His miraculous works throughout history serve as a testament to His boundless capability. What He has promised, He will do. His promises offer us hope and assurance in times of uncertainty. Each act of kindness and compassion displayed during His life reflects His unwavering love for each of us, reminding us that even in our lowest moments, we are never alone. He is always with us, guiding us and holding us close to His heart.
Everlasting Father
Jesus is the Messiah who is a powerful ruler and a tender, faithful, wise provider who loves us and holds us close to Him. John 14:9-11 says: “Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and that the Father is in me? The words I say to yoyu I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is is me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves.”
Jesus cares deeply for us and provides for us as an earthly father provides for his family. He will supply our every need.
Prince of Peace
Do you ever long for peace in your heart and mind? Jesus came to bring peace to our weary hearts. His peace is a peace that we surpasses all understanding. It is not the absence of our problems, but a knowing that God is in control and will work everything out for our good. John 14:27 says:
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
How do I apply His promise?
It’s so easy to read about the Christmas story but we may question how we apply it to our lives. We can begin to apply it by accepting Jesus into our lives as our Lord and Savior. Turn to Him when you need wisdom and guidance and don’t lean on your own wisdom or understanding. Trust in His power to overcome the challenges you may be facing knowing that He will take care of you. Begin to experience His peace by releasing your cares to Him. Make Him a priority in your life every minute of every day. He cares about you so much.
Conclusion
Christmas can be a stressful time of the year for many of us, but my prayer for you today is that you will embrace the true meaning of the season. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Begin to set aside the need to have everything perfect. Perfection is often an illusion that leads only to disappointment and stress. Let go of the anxiety and stress you are experiencing, understanding that these feelings do not reflect the joy that this season can bring. Instead, turn your eyes upon Jesus. Allow His peace and love to fill every area of your heart and mind, transforming your worries into hope and your burdens into blessings. You will find peace in the warmth of His presence. Take a moment to reflect and cherish the blessings around you, and in turn, be a blessing to others.
Find Joy In Today 
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