“The greatest Christmas gift ever given wasn’t placed under the tree, He was placed on the Tree and His name is Jesus” Author Unknown
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel. (NJKV)
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called, Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (NKJV)
The words in Isaiah were a prophecy of the birth of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ’s birth symbolizes HOPE for the generation of Judah that was going through a difficult period. Likewise, today, we have been experiencing an unprecedented Pandemic.
The prophecy of Jesus’ birth is still relevant today as it was then. The Birth of Jesus brought Hope to a generation of people living in uncertain times. We too are living in uncertain times. Therefore, Jesus’ birth is what I consider “The Birth of Hope” which serves as an antidote for today’s perilous times. Jesus Christ gives Hope that fuels our Faith to remain steadfast and unwavering in our Hope.
“The Birth of Hope” entails three things:
Your hope must be built upon the promises of God. It is imperative that the word of God becomes your compass to navigate through these difficult seasons. More importantly, your hope should be rooted and grounded upon the promises of God. When your Hope is built upon anything outside of the word of God you will find yourself becoming anxious, feeling unfilled and void of a life that is anchored in God. God’s word gives you a sense of certainty during uncertainty times.
Hope is the substratum of your faith. Your faith stands and uses your Hope as a foundation. Your faith draws from your Hope, providing you with a sense of confidence in God’s ability. Faith is the full assurance that what you desire according to His word will come to pass. Consequently, Jesus’ birth gives you the Hope and the assurance that He will make all things possible according to His word.
Hope is Immanuel. Immanuel means God with us and as you come into this Holiday season remember that God is with you and for you. This is the ultimate reason to celebrate the birth of Christ, as it gives comfort and peace knowing that whatever we encounter in this life Immanuel is with us. Therefore, we live a life of hope knowing that Immanuel (God) is with us through all of life’s situations. You do not have to do life on your own!
In closing, as we face another Holiday in the midst of a Pandemic my desire for you is to focus on celebrating “The Gift of Hope” in the birth of Jesus. His birth came to give you comfort, peace, joy and most of all Hope! Happy Holidays!
