Vantage Point
Christmas Is Relevant
“Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold,
I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is
born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord’ ”
(Luke 2:10,11, NKJV).
This proclamation of the birth of Christ is more than just a
seasonal recitation. It is still relevant today.
“Do not be afraid” The roots of fear are deep in sin. As we
are all sinners, we all have something to fear. Jesus came to take the fear of
punishment for sin away (Matthew 1:21) and to deliver us from lesser fears as
well.
“Good tidings” Good news was scarce when Jesus was born. In
today’s world of challenges, it is still welcome. Here’s good news: Jesus came
to take our place and die for our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 5:19).
“Great joy … to all people” The joy that comes from knowing
Jesus is available to all (John 3:16; Nehemiah 8:10).
“To you” Jesus is a personal Savior. Though He offers His
salvation to the whole world, He will transform any life and desires close
fellowship with every individual who comes to Him.
“This day” What a wonderful day that must have been. But
every time a sinner experiences the new birth, the joy of that day is released
once again. “Now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2).
“A Savior” Jesus did not just provide salvation and then
disappear. Though He sacrificed His life, His resurrection means that the One
who saved us remains with us in an intimate, continuously life-giving
relationship.
“Christ the Lord” He is not just a Savior; He is Lord of our
lives. Christmas is relevant because Christ stays connected to His people,
guiding them toward the best possible outcome in their lives.
Christmas is not just a tradition. Believers know the joy of
experiencing the significance of this day every day of their lives.
Ken Horn
E-mail your comments to pe@ag.org.
