Born That Man No More May Die

Behold the virgin shall conceive and bear a son and they shall call his name Emmanuel,

 (which means God with us). (Matthew 1:23)

‘If I ruled the world………’ is the title and first line of a song recorded in 1971. It’s a very interesting thought. What would we all write next? This first line in the song continues, ’every day would be the first day of spring’. If I ruled the world, I’d go for that – or even the first day of summer!

When we think of ruling the world, we think of kings, princes, governments and dictators – all grown men or women.   Recently though, through art and sculpture, I’ve been reawakened to the well-known Christmas story, where Joseph and Mary travel to Bethlehem and baby Jesus is born in a manger.

Nowadays, we can see pictures of a baby inside the womb. Seeing a similar image this summer, I was struck by the complete vulnerability of the baby, who can do absolutely nothing and is completely dependent upon the right help at the right time.,

The ruler and creator of this planet – The King of Kings and Lord of Lords made himself totally vulnerable by becoming a baby in Mary’s womb. He was born (was there a midwife around?), breast-fed, learned to sit up, walk, go to the toilet, read and write. He lived and worked as we do. He became one of us. The Son of God became the Son of Man – Emmanuel – God with us! Why?

Jesus Christ was born – so that our sins can be forgiven – come, repent and receive Him as your Lord.

Jesus Christ was born – to shed his blood on the cross – come, be baptized in water and the Spirit.

Jesus Christ was born – so that we can be born again – come, receive eternal abundant life now!

Jesus Christ was born – to give us rest, hope & peace – come, all who are weary and heavy laden.

How amazing it is that the Son of God, because of His love for us, left glory, became a baby, lived amongst us, died and rose again to save us. And he is still caring for us, as Hebrews 7:25 says:

He is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him,

since he always lives to make intercession for them.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Christmas, may you know His love, joy, hope and peace.

Come near to God and he will come near to you. (James 4:8)

photo by Megan Watson on Unsplash