For many, Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. We anticipate family gatherings, holiday spectacles, and nostalgic traditions. In the busyness of all the celebrations, we are in danger of missing the most crucial part—Jesus.
It may seem silly to say that, but it really is not. Our activities and expectations can easily distract us from the purpose of Christmas. If you aren’t celebrating Christ, you’re not celebrating Christmas. During that season, we should focus on a truth that should continue every season. The Son of God came in the flesh to fulfill God’s plan of salvation. The birth of Jesus was not a heavenly afterthought but an intentional plan from the beginning.
See the virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they will name him Immanuel, which is translated “God is with us.”.
Matthew 1:23
Old Testament preachers prophesied centuries before Jesus’ coming with precise details. Their accuracy should mesmerize us.
- Micah pinpointed the birthplace of Jesus as Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).
- Jeremiah spoke of the imminent danger into which Jesus would be born (Jeremiah 31:15).
- Solomon wrote of how the traveling wise man would bring gifts (Psalm 72:9-10).
If these details and many more were so accurate, we must trust the description of this coming Christ. Of all the monikers given to Him during this season of foreshadowing, the Prophet Isaiah called Him something awe-inspiring. “Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign: See the virgin will conceive, have a son, and name him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). Out of all the nicknames Jesus could have, He is referred to as God dwelling with us. Nothing you could celebrate at any Christmas could rival that.
Even if everyone else has left you, God is with you!
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.
