There is a large piece of granite by the north entrance to our building. Isaiah 43:1 is carved in that stone. It also is my confirmation verse. I can’t tell you how often I have run home to that verse, assigned to me by the pastor who confirmed me. I think of it several times a day. It’s comforting. It gives me courage.
The Apostle Paul uses the term “economist” of God’s grace to describe himself. He is a steward of God’s grace. This is also a function of every Christian. We are to be God’s lamplighters in a world darkened by sin, immorality and conflict. With God’s Word we can do it!
Christ’s birth does not only make a difference at the time of our death. Christians change here and now how they live their lives. Life on earth and life in heaven are effected by Christ’s birth!
From ancient times the Lord predicted in detail the birth in human form of his son the Messiah. Yet, despite the fulfillment of all of these, some are still skeptic.
Simeon saw the baby Jesus and recognized in him the savior God had promised. He asked God to let him die. John the Baptist received the same reassurance. This was the one who was to come!
Just as Malachi had long foretold, John the Baptist begins his mission: to prepare the way for the Lord Jesus. That was the only mission God assigned to him. As soon as he was done, he was to die at Herod’s hands.