Last month the Christmas story was displayed in nativity scenes, read about from the Bible and acted out in church pageants. The excitement of the Christmas season has diminished now.
I wonder how long the excitement around the birth of Jesus lasted? The shepherds and wise men who participated in the events following his birth must have talked about it for some time.
King Herod, trying to eliminate Jesus, ordered the slaughter of those two years old and under. This caused a lot of pain to the parents who lost their child. What a difference between what the Heavenly Father can do and the hurt that Herod caused.
Thirty years later Jesus is again seen in a miraculous context. Signs and wonders continued as he preached and taught in villages and towns around the country side. Because of what happened in the Christmas story, many had their life story altered for the better.
Those who experienced healing in their body must have been the center of attention for some time in their families and towns. Stories are told in the gospels of all manner of diseases and ailments being healed by Jesus Christ. The crippled walking instead of sitting stationary caused a stir. The blind making their own way instead of being led about were viewed with wonder.
Guilt and sin were dealt with as well. Those weighed down by condemnation were redeemed, as well as some with demonic afflictions. Peace and comfort replaced anguish and anxiety.
The light of truth shined in hearts and lives. Jesus invited all to walk in that light and escape the darkness from the devil’s deception. Life stories were changed for the better for many that followed his teaching.
Prophetic fulfillment is powerful proof of God’s purpose. Jesus fulfilled many of those prophecies which is more than happenstance.
Imagine the prophecy of Isaiah 9:6 coming to pass in your life. The child born and the son given is Jesus Christ, just as it was foretold. The titles given to him in that verse can be applied to you.
When confusion and chaos are causing difficulties, the Wonderful Counselor can bring clarity and direction. The one who knows the end from the beginning can help with his guidance.
We face many impossibilities in our lives. We don’t have the resources or abilities to make situations work out. Turn to the mighty God for help and answers. He has power beyond imagination to assist you as he wills.
When things fall to pieces instead of being peaceful, we can look to the Prince of Peace for help. He can impart “peace that passes understanding.” The scriptures promise this peace will keep our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Your relationship with your father may have been tumultuous or tremendous. That relationship comes to an end eventually. The everlasting Father will continue to be the one to protect you, provide for you, and let his presence be with you. He can lead you to an eternal home with him.
The Christmas story is real so that your life story can be better. The Christ child became the savior through the cross. The changes he can make for you are miraculous and marvelous.
Mitch Glover is pastor of Sterling Pentecostal Church. Sunday services include Bible classes for all ages at 10 a.m. and worship service at 11 a.m. Bible study is Thursday at 7 p.m. Visit the services and sterlingpentecostalchurch.com.
