Jesus


One of my favorite Christmas songs (and videos) is called Joseph's Lullaby by Mercy Me, and before we go on, you can listen to it here if you'd like. (Note if you click the link it will open the song in a new window...remember to come back!)

When I watch that video and see that little baby being placed in a food trough for animals, I am struck by the knowledge that God does not operate in ways that we expect.

At the time of Jesus' birth, the Jewish world was waiting for a Messiah.  They were looking for one who would reestablish Israel, who would turn swords into ploughshares, who would end oppression, and who would bring justice... for such was the vision of the Biblical Prophets.

But rather than a ruler who would overthrow the Roman government, and restore Israel - here was this tiny baby!  No wonder so many are still waiting.

However, I believe that God sent Jesus to this Earth to make a way for us to be reconciled and acceptable to Him.  And I believe we NEEDED Jesus because when we tried to "live up" to the commandments God gave us on our own, we failed miserably.  EVERY TIME.

The redemption that Christ has offered me is an internal transformation.  One that tells me I am forgiven of my sins.  One that offers me a great inner peace, knowing that I am loved and accepted by God.  One that tells me Jesus' blood has washed me clean, and that because of Him, the hope of heaven is real.

There is a line in the lullaby that sticks out to me..."I believe the glory of Heaven is lying in my arms tonight." 

What an incredible thing!  Mary and Joseph got to hold and cuddle a baby Jesus, and now I get to hold Him in my heart.  

"If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." - Romans 10:9


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