December 25, 2004

CHRIST THE LORD

"For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11, NKJV).

The angelic announcement of the birth of a Saviour is the most wonderful announcement ever made on planet earth. The Christmas story has nothing to do with Santa Claus, but everything to do with Christ. The announcement, "There is born to you this day... a Savior, who is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11, NKJV), introduced the incarnation as the central theme of the gospel. Though no longer robed in heavenly splendor, but in swaddling clothes, the firstborn son of Mary was nonetheless "Christ the Lord."

When Christ the Lord was born, all heaven broke loose in jubilation (see Luke 2:13, 14). Men and angels joined to ascribe thanksgiving to God with whom the plan of salvation originated. The birth of Christ was the good news of God's redeeming love in action at the manger and at the cross. The Christ of Christmas was born to bring us second birth, born to set the sinner free, born to bring us hope, born to vanquish sin and death, born to give us everlasting life.

The one born to be our Saviour was no ordinary man. Those who have tasted His marvelous salvation gladly and lovingly crown Him Lord of all. He will soon be on His way to our planet for the second time, not as a babe in a manger, but to reign forever as king. That glorious day is the grand focus of Christmas. "If angels sung because the Saviour was born in Bethlehem, shall not our hearts echo the glad strain, Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, good will to men? Although we do not know the exact day of Christ's birth, we would honor the sacred event... Jesus came into the world to bring hope, comfort, peace, and happiness to all."--Review and Herald, December 17, 1889.

My Prayer Today: Lord, in the fullness of time, You sent a Saviour--Christ the Lord. Help me to be ready when He returns as king. Amen.