Scripture: “And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.” – 1 John 4:14
Observation: John is writing as an eyewitness to all the events in which he was a part in Jesus’ ministry. Here he is proclaiming Jesus as our Saviour!
Application: During the Christmas season, much of the world focuses on the religious aspects of the holiday. There are many nativity scenes on display where we see Mary, Joseph, and the baby in the manger. Some include shepherds and wise men worshiping in the stable area with the new family. We hear many beloved Christmas hymns playing throughout the month of December wherever we go, and of course, there are endearing Christmas plays performed in many schools and churches that bring the joy of season close to home. But there is much more about Christmas that we must consider and cherish in our hearts always.
John 3:16 reminds us, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Christmas happened for a very specific reason. That reason was to provide redemption for the sins of humanity. God’s plan of redemption for His creation necessitated His own Son, Jesus Christ, to be born as a baby, live His life without sin, and ultimately sacrifice Himself on a cruel Roman cross. There is nothing we could do ourselves to purchase our salvation. It is only the precious sinless blood of Jesus shed on that cross that could settle the sin-debt mankind owed. Hebrews 9:22 explains, “And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.” In order for us to be saved from the eternal punishment we deserved for our sins, Jesus had to be born… to die.
This Christmas as you gather with family and friends, opening presents and enjoying time together, take a moment to remember that the manger was merely the first step on a long road that would culminate at Calvary, and rejoice! Why? Because without Christmas, there would be no Calvary. And without Calvary, we would never have the opportunity be forgiven of our sins and live eternally with the Saviour that John so boldly proclaimed!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You so much for sending Your Son, Jesus, to us! Thank You for Christmas, when I can celebrate His birth, and the great love You have for me and all people. You sent Jesus to become our Saviour. You sent Him knowing He would die on the cross one day to shed His precious blood to redeem us all. I haven’t enough words to express my gratitude for all You have done, but I lift my voice and my heart to You in worship and thanksgiving. In Jesus’ precious, sweet, holy name, I pray. Amen.
On the night Christ was born, just before break of morn,
As the stars in the sky were fading,
O’er the place where He lay, fell a shadow cold and gray
Of a cross that would humble a King.
Born to die upon Calv’ry,
Jesus suffered my sin to forgive;
Born to die upon Calv’ry,
He was wounded that I might live.
(from “Born to Die” by Ron Hamilton)
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“Of this man’s seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:” – Acts 13:23