In a Roman province, in the town of Bethlehem, there was a humble birth. The young, new parents had no idea how much their baby boy's birth would one day affect the entire world. In nearly every country, and in many languages, His words would reign supreme.
Much of the world commemorates the birth of Jesus at this time every year, and has for nearly two thousand years! So, how has the birth and life of Jesus affected your life?
Consider these words written about Jesus: “The Greatest Man in History… Jesus; Had no servants, yet they called Him Master. Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher. Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer. He had no army, yet kings feared Him. He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world. He did not live in a castle, yet they called Him Lord, He ruled no nations, yet they called Him King, He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him. He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.” (Lyle C Rollings III)
Realize, too, how the entire world’s calendar has been split in two by the birth of Jesus Christ: before His birth, time on the calendar is marked as B.C., and after His birth, each year is marked as A.D. His arrival on earth has affected all of history!
Everywhere that “Christianity has had a prominent presence, there has been marked improvement in liberty and justice as opposed to societies that have been, or continue to be, dominated by non-Christian religions. Christ’s followers produced revolutionary changes – socially, politically, economically, and culturally.” (Under the Influence: How Christianity Transformed Civilization by Alvin J. Schmidt)
His name is “Emmanuel, which translated means ‘God with us.’” (Matthew 1:23) You and I have life because of His love for us! “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” ( John 3:16)
He wants us to call upon Him when life becomes too difficult to face alone. One may have chronic pain due to a terrible accident. One may have recently learned that his test results were ‘positive’ for cancer. One may have discovered that her spouse has been cheating. We are hurt; afraid; worried. These are times when we need Him most. He hasn’t deserted us!
Wise men from the east searched for Jeus, brought him precious gifts, and worshiped Him. Wise men today still seek Him! He is “not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9) How has Jesus affected your life?