by David Brenneman
"But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons." Galatians 4:4-5.
"For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly." Romans 5:6.
"He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority;" Acts 1:7.
Time...for some this very morning time stretched on for what seemed like an eternity. For some in good ways and for others it really wasn't.
Time was made for mankind. Over 2,000 years ago God, in the person of Jesus Christ, stepped down into time...at just the right time...a time set by the Father’s own authority as well...to make a way where there was no way to save humanity.
Because of the birth of Jesus hope began and cannot be rubbed out.
Some this morning are celebrating the birthday of Jesus. Some it's a day unlike any other. Used to work grocery and had a coworker who would rather have worked than be off because of his non-belief in Christmas.
In Heaven time doesn't exist. In Hell it doesn't either but to both it is eternity that has truly different meanings.
Many thousands of churches probably offered invitations to make this particular Christmas Eve the known day when they came to Christ for salvation...at our church many accepted that invitation.
Throughout the years of blog writing God has lead me to offer that to all who find it.
At the right time Jesus came, lived a sinless life, in full obedience to His Father. Obeying His Earthly parents while growing up with them. Entered into the preordained plan of God to create His Church.
As our Pastor rightly stated...Christmas points to Easter. The Birth of Jesus Christ at Bethlehem points to Calvary where He was crucified.
While eating in excess will be part of the theme of today, intentionally stop and consider the cost.
The leaving of Heaven as the Son of God to be born a simple human baby. The learning of how to do everything from human parents who probably had to get help from their parents.
It is a thought that blows my mind...for Joseph...how do you teach God? God who knows everything. God who knows you better than you know you.
While the possible presents are unwrapped and messes are made. While joy is possibly part of your morning and day today.
While in the midst of all of this...remember...that this promise began at the fall of mankind in the Garden of Eden. This fullness of time was thousands of years for mankind and probably seconds for Jesus. The promise was kept in the form of a helpless baby to save mankind. To be the perfect sacrifice. Jesus steps in your way to take the punishment destined for each and every single person that began...with coming at the right time...to a manger in Bethlehem.
The offer of salvation isn't going to last forever. Just as at the right time He was born of a virgin, born under the Law...He died on a cross exactly when it was supposed to happen.
Jesus will return on a day set by His Father's own authority. That day when Jesus will return once more to receive all who have believed to Himself. That day also ushers in the judgments of God as promised in His Word the Bible.
So while joy is the theme desired for today...be mindful of these things.
Pray for those less fortunate than yourselves. Be ready to give a reason for the hope that you have in Christ.
Merry Christmas to all!
All NASB 1995 and NASB Scripture Excerpts used by permission. (C) Lockman Foundation.
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